Kumaraswamy rebukes West Bengal govt over 'protocol lapses' during Prez Murmu visit
Bengaluru (PTI): Taking exception to the alleged protocol lapses during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to West Bengal, Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Sunday said the differences in political ideology can never justify disregard for constitutional offices that command universal respect across the country.
The JD(S) leader emphasised that in a mature democracy, every government, irrespective of party affiliation, should uphold the dignity of institutions that safeguard our constitutional framework.
President Murmu had expressed displeasure and anguish over alleged protocol lapses during her recent Siliguri visit, citing a last-minute venue change for the Santal conference and the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the state ministers during her reception.
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In a post on X, Kumaraswamy said, "Insulting the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu avaru, is nothing short of an affront to the Constitution itself. The office of the President symbolises the sovereignty, unity and dignity of our Republic, and it stands above all political considerations."
Warning that any discourtesy shown to the nation’s highest constitutional authority undermines the very spirit of democratic institutions and sets a deeply troubling precedent, he said, "differences in political ideology can never justify disregard for constitutional offices that command universal respect across the country."
"The honour of the President’s office must remain inviolable and beyond the realm of partisan politics," he added.
Echoing these sentiments, State BJP President B Y Vijayendra said he was "deeply pained" by the manner in which President Droupadi Murmu was treated in West Bengal.
In a post on 'X', he said, "The anguish expressed by the First Citizen of India marks a deeply disturbing moment for our Constitutional Democracy. By disregarding established protocol and shifting the venue of the International Santal Conference, the All India Trinamool Congress Government in West Bengal has not only shown disrespect to the Presidency but has also undermined our proud tribal heritage."
"President Murmu Ji’s life is itself a living symbol of the strength and pride of India’s tribal communities, and to disrespect her in such a setting is to dishonour the millions of tribal citizens whose aspirations and identity she represents," he added.
Noting that disrespecting the Head of State is nothing short of disrespecting the Constitution itself, Vijayendra said, the TMC government’s conduct reflects a deeply worrying pattern of disregard for constitutional norms and institutional dignity.
"Those responsible must be held accountable, and it must be made absolutely clear that the office of the President of India stands beyond the reach of political negligence and arrogance. India’s democracy demands nothing less," he added.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
