BSP chief Mayawati. File | Photo credit: PTI
Amid controversy over “lapses” at President Droupada Murma’s event in West Bengal, BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday (March 8, 2026) said that everyone must respect the office of the President in accordance with the ideals and dignity of the Constitution and avoid any politicization of constitutional positions.
President Murmu on Saturday (March 7, 2026) expressed dismay at the low turnout at a tribal community event near Bagdogra Airport and questioned the decision to shift the venue from Bidhannagar.
She also noted the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her ministers during her visit.
In a post on X, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief said, “Everyone must respect the office of the President in accordance with the ideals and dignity of the Constitution and avoid any politicization of constitutional positions.”
She said it is imperative that all maintain respect for the office of the President and follow the prescribed protocol attached to the office.
President Murmu is not only a woman but also belongs to a tribal community and the recent development should not have happened during her visit to West Bengal, she added.
“What happened during the President’s recent visit to West Bengal should not have happened. It is extremely unfortunate,” Mayawati said in her post.
The former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister also expressed concern over the “increasing politicization” of the office of Lok Sabha Speaker in recent times.
She said constitutional functions must be respected above party politics and their dignity should be maintained by all.
Mayawati further expressed the hope that the upcoming session of Parliament scheduled to begin on Monday (March 9, 2026) would go smoothly in the interest of the country and the public.
“People expect the session to function properly and focus on issues concerning the nation and public welfare. That is also the need of the hour,” she added.
Published – March 8, 2026 11:08 AM IST
