Mamata Banerjee Takes Charge As TMC State President Amid Internal Party Crisis

In a significant political development following the assembly election defeat, Mamata Banerjee has taken direct control of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) by assuming the position of State President, while this move comes amidst reports of a split within the party, the alleged takeover of party offices, and the high-profile resignation of Chandrima Bhattacharya. During a Facebook Live session on Saturday, the former Chief Minister made several key announcements to stabilize the party structure and address the growing dissent among certain factions.

New Leadership Appointments

Mamata Banerjee explained that the current State President, Subrata Bakshi, has been unwell, which necessitated her decision to take over the command of the state unit personally. To bolster the organizational framework, she announced the appointment of MLA Kunal Ghosh and former minister Madan Mitra as the General Secretaries of the party. These appointments are seen as an attempt to consolidate power and bring experienced voices to the forefront during this period of transition and internal challenge.

The Dispute Over the Real TMC

Addressing the ongoing debate regarding which faction represents the 'real' TMC, Mamata Banerjee delivered a sharp and emotional response. She questioned the motives of those challenging her leadership, asking, "What do you think? " She acknowledged the possibility of legal or administrative hurdles regarding the party's symbol, stating that even if an official like Vanish Kumar Babu were to grant the symbol to another faction, it wouldn't diminish her connection with the people, while she asserted that when she goes to the public with the symbol around her neck, no one will be able to silence her voice or sever her bond with the masses.

Martyr's Day Rally and Police Restrictions

The TMC leader also confirmed that the annual Martyr's Day (Shahid Sabha) will take place on 21 July as planned. Despite facing hurdles in obtaining police permission, she declared that the rally would proceed, even if it had to be conducted from a single rickshaw. She criticized the police for not granting permission for rallies in Kolkata until August, questioning whether Section 144 was effectively in place across the city until then. Her determination to hold the event underscores the party's intent to maintain its public presence despite administrative and political pressure.

Attack on Rebels and BJP Influence

Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on party rebels who have questioned the existence of the TMC after 2023. She pointed out that these individuals were elected using the party symbol and her signature, while she challenged them, stating that if they've the courage and faith in their new path, they should openly join the BJP instead of acting as traitors from within. She highlighted the irony of their performance in 2026 and the upcoming 2027 elections, emphasizing that their political identity was built on the foundation of the party they're now betraying.

Controversy Over Party Office and Rent

Regarding the alleged takeover of the Trinamool Bhavan, Mamata Banerjee clarified the financial and legal status of the property. She refuted claims that rent had not been paid, asserting that the rent has been cleared until October 2027. She stated that the party pays a monthly rent of 1 lakh rupees and possesses all necessary documentation and checks to prove it. She emphasized that the office is the property of the organization and the common people, not any individual, and criticized the use of central forces to occupy such premises. She concluded by noting that while buildings can be occupied by force, the hearts of the people can't be won through such means.

On Chandrima Bhattacharya's Resignation

Commenting on the resignation of Chandrima Bhattacharya, Mamata Banerjee suggested that the decision wasn't sudden and had been brewing for some time, especially since Bhattacharya's son had already aligned with the opposing faction. She maintained that the Trinamool Congress doesn't depend on one or two individuals but relies on the strength of its workers and the general public, while she also criticized the current state of affairs where children aren't receiving eggs in mid-day meals while political opponents are busy throwing eggs in protest, accusing the police of acting like block presidents under the influence of the opposition.