In a major setback for West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Member of Parliament Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has resigned from her position as the Barasat Organizational District President. This decision comes at a time when the party is grappling with the aftermath of its performance in the West Bengal assembly elections. Dastidar, who is considered a close associate of Banerjee, cited growing public concerns regarding injustice and corruption in the state as the primary reasons for her departure from the organizational role.
Reasons for the Resignation
In her formal resignation, the four-time TMC MP stated that recent developments within the state have raised serious questions among the general public, while she emphasized that the party leadership can't afford to overlook these concerns. Dastidar highlighted the critical importance of transparency, accountability, discipline, and commitment in the political sphere, while she pointed out that the party's disappointing performance in the district during the recent assembly elections is a direct reflection of the public's mood. Taking full moral responsibility for this electoral setback, Kakoli expressed her firm decision to step down from the post of District President.
Internal Friction and Allegations
The senior TMC leader also made a strong appeal to the party leadership to once again prioritize experienced and dedicated veteran workers. She argued that a strong organizational structure is essential for improving the party's image and reconnecting with grassroots supporters. This resignation follows a series of events that indicated growing friction. Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar was recently removed from the post of Chief Vigilance Officer in the Lok Sabha, while following her removal, she expressed her displeasure through a Facebook post, where she wrote that she had received the reward for 4 decades of loyalty. The situation intensified when security from Central Forces was increased in front of her residence, leading to widespread speculation. On Sunday, she held a press conference to officially announce her resignation from the post of District President of North 24 Parganas.
Criticism of New Leadership and Corruption
Expressing her anger against the newer crop of leaders, Kakoli remarked that the behavior of leaders who joined the party after 2011 to collect honey and their comments on social media wouldn't be tolerated. She stated that these individuals don't understand the history or the people they're talking about. She further expressed her disagreement with the luxury and lack of transparency that has crept into the party over the last few years. Dastidar mentioned that she has faced criticism at various levels but remains committed to her middle-class lifestyle, stating she isn't accustomed to such opulence. Interestingly, while Mamata Banerjee claimed that the BJP won by stealing votes, Kakoli almost dismissed this theory. She openly admitted that corruption and dishonesty have occurred, and that party leaders have become arrogant. She noted that the public doesn't accept such behavior and has realized that in a democracy, one can't simply do whatever they wish.
Professional Background and Party Reaction
Regarding the resignation, TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh stated that this is an internal matter of the party. He declined to comment on whether the resignation has been officially accepted, stating that the party would provide information when deemed appropriate. Beyond her active political career, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar is a professional gynecologist. She completed her MBBS from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital and later received training in Obstetric Ultrasound in London. Known for raising healthcare and women's issues, she has previously served as the National President of the Trinamool Mahila Congress and as the party's Chief Whip in the Lok Sabha.