Kolkata: Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday described the current political situation facing her party as a “do or die” battle, amid growing speculation of internal dissent and reports suggesting that a large group of party legislators could challenge the existing leadership structure following the party’s recent electoral setback in West Bengal.
Addressing supporters during a protest in Kolkata, Banerjee accused political opponents of attempting to dismantle the Trinamool Congress from within by encouraging defections and creating divisions among party ranks. The protest marked one of her first major public mobilisations since the party’s defeat in the state assembly elections, which saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secure a decisive victory.
“For us, it is a do or die battle. Some people are betraying us to break the Trinamool Congress,” Banerjee said while addressing party workers. She also asserted that she would continue to stand by grassroots workers even if some leaders chose to leave the party.
The development comes amid reports that more than 50 TMC MLAs belonging to a faction reportedly opposed to party national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee could approach the Assembly Speaker with letters staking a claim over the party organisation. Political observers have drawn parallels with the political crises witnessed in Maharashtra, where splits within the Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party led to rival factions gaining official recognition.
While no formal move has yet been confirmed, the speculation has intensified concerns about the future direction of the Trinamool Congress. Party leaders, however, have attempted to project confidence and dismiss reports of an imminent split.
Adding to the party’s challenges, former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas has been summoned by Bidhannagar Dakshin Police in connection with the controversy surrounding the much-publicised Lionel Messi GOAT Tour event at Salt Lake Stadium. He has been asked to appear before investigators on June 5. The case stems from allegations made by event organiser Satadru Dutta regarding irregularities linked to the event.
Separately, police authorities reportedly recovered a large quantity of ammunition and explosive materials during a raid at the residence of TMC leader Jabed Sheikh in South 24 Parganas district. The recovery has triggered fresh political controversy and is likely to become a major issue in the state’s political discourse.
Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari continued his sharp criticism of the Trinamool Congress. Speaking to the media, Adhikari stressed the importance of national symbols and patriotic values, stating that citizens should respect “Vande Mataram,” the national anthem, Republic Day, and Independence Day. He also claimed that the recitation of “Vande Mataram” had been made mandatory in schools.
The BJP has argued that public dissatisfaction with the Trinamool Congress after years in power contributed significantly to the election outcome. The ruling party at the Centre has also highlighted recent incidents involving senior TMC leaders as evidence of growing political discontent within the state.
