CHENNAI: Leaders of various political parties, including AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswani, on Sunday condemned West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the alleged breach of protocol during the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to the eastern state. They accused the Trinamool Congress government of disrespecting the constitutional office of the President.
In a post on X, Edappadi K Palaniswami said any disrespect, procedural lapse, or avoidable embarrassment involving the President at a public event is “deeply regrettable and unacceptable”.
He expressed sadness that the President had to publicly express anguish over the incident and stressed that constitutional offices represent the dignity of the Republic. He further said that those in power have the responsibility to ensure that administrative actions reflect proper respect for the nation’s highest office.
PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss alleged that the West Bengal government had deliberately disrespected the President during her state visit to attend an international conference of the Santali tribal community. He said that as per protocol, the chief minister or a state minister should receive the President when she arrives in a state. However, he claimed that only the Mayor of Siliguri welcomed her at Bagdogra airport.
AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran and TMC (M) president G K Vasan also echoed similar views and condemned the incident.