BJP Labels TMC a 'Fake News Factory' in Escalating Protocol Dispute
The Bharatiya Janata Party launched a sharp counterattack on Monday against the Trinamool Congress, branding it a "fake news factory" after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of disrespecting President Droupadi Murmu. The political firestorm erupted following the President's visit to Bengal for an international tribal conference near Siliguri, where she reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with arrangements, including a venue change and the absence of senior state officials at Bagdogra airport.
BJP's Social Media Retort and Protocol Defense
In a post on X, the BJP's West Bengal unit vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that the TMC was "spreading misinformation" and engaging in "manufactured outrage." The party clarified the protocol: "As per official protocol during the presentation of Bharat Ratna award, others present remain seated while the award is being conferred. There was absolutely no breach of decorum." The BJP further condemned the TMC for "twisting a dignified moment" involving President Murmu, PM Modi, and Bharat Ratna recipient LK Advani for "petty politics," urging respect for constitutional offices.
Mamata Banerjee's Rebuttal and Photographic Evidence
The controversy intensified after PM Modi alleged on Sunday that the TMC government had "insulted" the tribal woman President. At a protest in Kolkata, Banerjee dismissed the claims as politically motivated ahead of state assembly elections. She presented an enlarged photograph showing PM Modi seated while President Murmu stood nearby during the Bharat Ratna award ceremony to Advani, stating: "The picture shows that the PM is seated when the President is standing. We never do that. It is the BJP which carries the culture of insulting the President, not us." Banerjee questioned the timing, asking: "You are targeting Bengal on the eve of assembly elections by saying whatever pleases you. Why? Why? Why?"
State Government's Stance on Protocol and Event Management
Banerjee reiterated the state government's "full respect for the chair of the President and the Constitution of India," denying any protocol breach during Murmu's visit. She explained that the state was not informed of program details by the organizers and shifted blame for venue issues—such as garbage, green room problems, and lack of women's toilets—to private organizers and the Airports Authority of India, which hosted the event. "We did not pick the venue, you did," she asserted. Regarding her absence, Banerjee noted that Siliguri mayor Goutam Deb received the President at the airport, and she was engaged in a dharna to "protect people's rights."
