Report by swati
Kolkatta
17 July
TMC Faces Fresh Turmoil as Senior Leader Madan Mitra Quits Party Posts, Joins Rebel Faction
In a major political setback for the ruling Trinamool Congress, senior party leader and veteran legislator Madan Mitra has resigned from all organizational positions and announced his association with a rebel faction of the party reportedly led by Ritabrata Banerjee.
The dramatic development has intensified speculation about growing internal dissent within the TMC ahead of the crucial electoral battles in West Bengal. While Mitra clarified that he continues to remain a legislator, his decision to step away from official party responsibilities is being viewed as a significant challenge to the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Sharp Criticism of Abhishek Banerjee
Addressing supporters and media persons, Mitra made a series of explosive remarks aimed at TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
“I had suggested to Abhishek Banerjee that he should leave the party for six months or one year. I told him that we should first strengthen the party, and then he could return and take his place. But he refused and said he would not leave the party,”
Mitra alleged that repeated warnings about organizational weaknesses were ignored by the current leadership.
“The party is sinking; the boat has already sunk. People are suffering, and the party belongs to everyone. I have resigned from all positions, though I remain a legislator,”
he declared.
Rebel Faction Gains Attention
Mitra’s move to join the dissident group led by Ritabrata Banerjee is expected to attract considerable political attention. Although the strength of the faction remains unclear, the involvement of a high-profile and seasoned leader like Mitra could embolden other dissatisfied members within the party.
Political observers note that Mitra has long been considered one of the TMC’s most recognizable mass leaders, particularly in urban and suburban constituencies. His public criticism of the party’s younger leadership may deepen the generational divide that has occasionally surfaced within the organization.
TMC Yet to Issue Detailed Response
As of the time of publication, the Trinamool Congress had not issued a detailed official response to Mitra’s allegations. Party insiders, however, suggested that the leadership is likely to treat the development as an internal matter and may attempt damage control in the coming days.
Sources within the party indicated that senior leaders are monitoring the situation closely, especially given the potential impact on cadre morale and organizational unity.
Political Significance
Madan Mitra has remained a prominent figure in Bengal politics for decades and has survived multiple political controversies and electoral battles. His resignation from party posts, even while retaining his legislative membership, sends a strong symbolic message about the level of dissatisfaction among certain sections of the TMC.
Analysts believe the episode could have broader implications for the party’s internal power dynamics, particularly regarding the role of Abhishek Banerjee in the organization’s future leadership structure.
What Happens Next?
The immediate political impact of Mitra’s decision will depend on whether other TMC leaders choose to align with the rebel faction. If additional legislators or district-level leaders join the camp, the development could evolve from an isolated rebellion into a more substantial internal challenge.
For now, the ruling party faces the difficult task of containing dissent while projecting unity ahead of upcoming political contests in West Bengal.
