Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a Member of Parliament from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has formally complained to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla regarding the behaviour of fellow party member, Kalyan Banerjee. In her letter dated May 28, 2026, Dastidar accused the TMC chief whip of engaging in misconduct and exhibiting derogatory behaviour towards women MPs. The allegations suggest a troubling culture of inappropriate conduct within the party ranks.

Dastidar’s complaint indicates that Banerjee’s actions were not isolated, as she claimed that multiple other women MPs have experienced similar treatment. This has raised serious concerns about the working environment for female legislators within the TMC, especially after the party’s recent electoral setbacks.

The context of this situation emerges against the backdrop of a significant reshuffle within the TMC, particularly following its poor performance in the Assembly elections. Kakoli Dastidar was previously removed from her position as the party’s Chief Whip and replaced by Kalyan Banerjee, leading to rising tensions and mutual blame among party members.

Dastidar’s Recent Resignations From Party Posts

Kakoli Dastidar’s complaint coincides with her resignation from multiple intra-party positions, signalling a shift in her allegiance. Just a day prior to her letter, she stepped down as president of the Barasat parliamentary district of the TMC, claiming “moral responsibility” for the party’s electoral failures in that region. Subsequently, she also resigned from her role as chairperson of the All India Trinamool Mahila Congress and relinquished other key organisational responsibilities.

In her resignation, Dastidar made pointed remarks about the party leadership, implicitly criticising Kalyan Banerjee and his newly acquired role. She articulated her discontent, stating that it was untenable to hold a position where the misconduct of ‘an uneducated, rude party MP’ towards women could not be confronted or curtailed.

This move signals growing discontent within the TMC, particularly regarding its leadership dynamics and the treatment of women within the party framework. Dastidar’s recent actions are reflective of broader issues and dissatisfaction following the electoral defeat, raising questions about the party’s internal organisation and policies.

Concerns Over TMC’s Gaps in Leadership

The reshuffle and consequent internal strife have seemingly emboldened Dastidar to voice her concerns more openly. Following her removal as chief whip, she posted a cryptic message on social media, reflecting on her long-term association with Mamata Banerjee and interpreting her removal as a ‘reward’ for her four decades of loyalty.

These developments unfold amid a wave of criticism aimed at the TMC’s operational efficacy. Dastidar has openly challenged the leadership, expressing dissatisfaction with the role of political consultancy I-PAC, and has highlighted issues involving grassroots worker neglect, corruption allegations, and controversies related to various public services.

Moreover, Dastidar’s participation in an administrative meeting led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has intensified speculation about possible factions within the TMC. While she has denied any political motivations behind her attendance, the implications of her actions are palpable.

Although Kakoli Dastidar has not resigned from her position as an MP or formally exited the TMC, her complaint against Kalyan Banerjee underscores a deepening rift within the party. As the TMC grapples with dissent and seeks to regroup post-election, the current scenario could exacerbate existing tensions and complicate efforts to unify party members.

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