CM Mamata fumes after police band denied entry into Raj Bhavan

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee voiced strong disapproval after learning that the Kolkata Police band was denied entry to the Republic Day celebrations at Raj Bhavan on Sunday. The incident occurred while two bands from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) were performing inside the Governor's House, creating an unexpected controversy.

Upon her arrival at the venue, the Chief Minister was informed that the Kolkata Police band was waiting at the gate, unable to join the event as they do traditionally every year. Visibly upset by the exclusion, Banerjee walked to the gate to engage directly with Raj Bhavan officials, demanding that the band be allowed to perform.

Banerjee made it clear to the officials that she would not enter the premises until the issue was resolved. Her intervention underscored her commitment to maintaining the cultural and ceremonial traditions associated with the Republic Day celebrations in the state.

Speaking to the media shortly after the incident, Banerjee expressed her displeasure at the decision to exclude the Kolkata Police band. She emphasized that their participation is an annual tradition and questioned the reasoning behind their initial exclusion. “Every year, the Kolkata Police band performs at this event. Why were they not allowed inside this time?” she asked.

The Chief Minister also clarified that she had no objections to the SSB bands performing but reiterated that the Kolkata Police band’s omission was unnecessary and unjustified. She was overheard describing the situation as "very bad" while addressing the media.

Following her intervention, Raj Bhavan officials quickly resolved the issue, and the Kolkata Police band was allowed to enter and perform at the Governor's House. The Chief Minister then proceeded to attend the Republic Day celebrations, ensuring the event concluded without further disruption.