“Insult to the Republic”: AP CM and Dy. CM Slam Bengal Govt Over Protocol Breach

Amaravathi, March 8: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan have issued strongly-worded statements condemning the West Bengal government following reports of protocol lapses and alleged “disrespect” shown to President Droupadi Murmu during her recent visit to the state. The controversy erupted after President Murmu expressed her “anguish” in Siliguri, noting the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her cabinet ministers at the airport and the venue of the 9th International Santal Conference.

Expressing his “deep sadness” over the President’s remarks, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu took to social media to emphasize that the office of the President transcends partisan politics. He stated that the office of the President represents the dignity of our Republic and must always be treated with the highest respect and courtesy. The CM further added that in a vibrant democracy, the sanctity of constitutional institutions must be protected, and any breach of protocol involving the Head of State is a matter of national concern.

Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, who has frequently advocated for tribal rights, was even more vocal, framing the incident as not just a constitutional lapse but an affront to India’s tribal heritage. He termed the situation “regrettable,” noting that the Santal community found it difficult to attend a conference meant for them due to a last-minute change in venue. He emphasized that the office of the Hon’ble President of India holds the highest constitutional respect and must always be treated with the dignity it deserves, stating that ensuring a smooth visit is the responsibility of the concerned administration. He further noted that India’s tribal communities are an integral part of the nation’s identity and their voices should never be treated “casually.”

The backlash from Andhra’s leadership follows similar condemnations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called the West Bengal government’s conduct “shameful and unprecedented.” While West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has defended her absence—stating she was not part of the official protocol list and accusing the BJP of using the President’s office for “political maligning”—the leadership in Andhra Pradesh has remained firm that the “Mother of the Republic” should never be drawn into such controversies.