Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee launched a strong counterattack against leaders who recently broke away from the party, accusing them of acting in coordination with the BJP to weaken the TMC. In her first public address since the political turmoil intensified, Banerjee rejected suggestions that the party was losing strength and insisted that the organisation would emerge stronger despite the defections.
Addressing supporters through a live social media broadcast, she defended her leadership, announced changes in the party structure and reaffirmed that the Trinamool Congress would go ahead with its annual July 21 Martyrs’ Day programme.
Challenges Rebels To Join BJP Openly
Taking direct aim at the dissident camp, Banerjee questioned why the leaders had remained silent while holding important positions within the party and government for years.
She alleged that the rebellion had been encouraged by the BJP and challenged the leaders to formally join the saffron party instead of, in her words, working from behind the scenes. Banerjee maintained that political disagreements should be expressed openly rather than through what she described as attempts to destabilise the organisation.
Party Reshuffle Announced Amid Crisis
The political developments coincided with the resignation of senior leader Chandrima Bhattacharya from her organisational responsibilities in the TMC.
Responding to the exit, Banerjee downplayed its significance and said the party’s future did not depend on a handful of individuals. She announced that she would temporarily oversee the responsibilities of the West Bengal unit until senior leader Subrata Bakshi resumes active duties.
The TMC chief also inducted Kunal Ghosh and Madan Mitra as general secretaries as part of an organisational reshuffle aimed at strengthening the party.
Defends Party Symbol And Headquarters
Banerjee also criticised the rebel faction over its reported move to claim the party’s election symbol and its attempt to assert control over the party office.
She expressed confidence that the Trinamool Congress would retain its recognised symbol and argued that while buildings or offices could be locked, public support could not be taken away. She also stated that the party continued to hold a valid rental agreement for its office premises and had regularly fulfilled its financial obligations.
July 21 Rally Will Go Ahead, Says Banerjee
Reiterating the importance of the party’s annual Martyrs’ Day gathering, Banerjee said preparations would continue despite what she described as administrative difficulties in securing permission.
She alleged that restrictions on rallies in parts of Kolkata were unfair and maintained that the programme would be organised regardless of the obstacles. Party workers, she said, would be informed about the final arrangements once official communication was received.
BJP Hits Back
The BJP dismissed Banerjee’s allegations, claiming that the departures reflected growing dissatisfaction within the Trinamool Congress rather than any external influence.
State BJP leaders argued that the ruling party was facing internal challenges because of changing political circumstances and rejected accusations that they were orchestrating the rebellion.
Political Tensions Rise Ahead Of Key Events
The latest confrontation highlights the deepening political battle in West Bengal as both the Trinamool Congress and the BJP seek to consolidate support ahead of future electoral contests. While Banerjee has sought to project confidence by reshaping the party organisation and rallying loyalists, the continuing defections have added a fresh dimension to the state’s evolving political landscape.
