BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed strong concern over the developments in Siliguri, West Bengal, during the visit of India’s President Droupadi Murmu, stating that the incident has deeply saddened the people of Odisha and the tribal community across the country.
In a social media post, the Chief Minister said that the denial of permission for the International Santhal Conclave and the sudden change of venue cannot be treated as mere logistical issues. According to him, such developments raise serious concerns, especially when the President of India was scheduled to attend the event as the Chief Guest.
The recent developments in Siliguri during the visit of our Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji, have deeply saddened the people of Odisha and the entire tribal community across India.
The denial of permission for the International Santhal Conclave and the abrupt shifting…
— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) March 7, 2026
The International Santhal Conclave was planned as a significant cultural gathering to celebrate the rich heritage, traditions, and identity of the Santhal community, one of India’s largest tribal groups. The presence of President Murmu, who herself belongs to the Santhal community and hails from Rairangpur in Odisha, was expected to add special significance to the event.
Majhi said that occasions meant to highlight the culture and identity of tribal communities should be handled with dignity and respect. He added that any disruption or action that diminishes the importance of such a gathering reflects a lack of sensitivity toward tribal communities.
Referring to the President’s journey, the Odisha Chief Minister noted that Murmu, often described as the “daughter of the soil,” rose from a modest background in Rairangpur to occupy the highest constitutional office in the country. Her rise, he said, represents the aspirations and pride of millions, particularly among tribal communities across India.
The Chief Minister further stated that the actions of the West Bengal government, led by Mamata Banerjee of the All India Trinamool Congress, have caused anguish not only to him personally but also to the people of Odisha and the wider tribal population.
Majhi also emphasised that the Office of the President is the highest constitutional office in India and must remain above political differences. Any action that undermines the dignity of that office, he said, weakens the respect owed to the country’s constitutional framework.
He concluded by stating that in a vibrant democracy, political considerations should never overshadow respect for constitutional institutions. Events celebrating the heritage of tribal communities, he said, should be encouraged and supported rather than facing obstacles.
