Mamata Banerjee has expressed confidence in her ability to revitalise the Trinamool Congress (TMC) amid ongoing tensions and resignations following the party’s recent electoral defeat. In a video message on July 15, she emphasised that she could reconstruct the party from the ground up, a task she claims to have accomplished previously in 2006. This assertion comes as the TMC faces significant internal dissent.

The former Chief Minister insisted that the party is facing threats, specifically mentioning Kamarhati MLA Madan Mitra. Mitra, a key figure who has resigned and aligned himself with a rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, allegedly informed her that his family is under threat. Her comments seem to contradict Mitra’s own explanation for his departure, as he mentioned being unable to work effectively within the party.

“Today we have 18 MPs. Yes, some are being threatened. Even today, one man has left. He told me yesterday that his family is being threatened. I will say—those who want to leave, please do. If I can restart the party in 2006, I can do it in 2021,” Banerjee stated, underscoring her resolve despite the challenges ahead.

Concerns Over Election Results and Police Actions

Banerjee further raised questions regarding the legitimacy of the recent Assembly election results, alleging that the TMC was manipulated into defeat. “We were made to lose. Someday it will be proven,” she declared, indicating her belief that external forces played a role in the election outcome.

The party leader also expressed concerns about police conduct, suggesting that they are acting in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and posing threats to TMC leaders. “I respect the police, but they are acting as BJP workers and threatening our leaders. Either join the BJP or the other camp; if not, they are being sent to jail,” she alleged, highlighting the prevailing tension between the TMC and law enforcement.

Despite these pressures, Banerjee maintained her commitment to her principles, stating, “If I had done setting we would not have faced this but I don’t sell my conscience.” Her sentiments reflect a determination to uphold her values amidst the ongoing crisis within her party.

Madan Mitra’s Departure and Its Implications

Madan Mitra’s recent resignation is being viewed as a critical development, especially given his prior role in the party. After his exit, he spoke to the media, explaining that he could no longer function effectively within the TMC due to unaddressed concerns regarding leadership direction. He remarked, “I resigned because I was no longer able to work effectively within Mamata Banerjee’s TMC,” attributing his decision to the party’s focus on promoting Abhishek Banerjee over organisational strengthening.

Mitra’s exit, he noted, is part of a larger trend, as numerous long-time associates of Mamata Banerjee are reportedly leaving the party for similar reasons. “I raised these concerns with Mamata Banerjee on several occasions, but they were not addressed,” he added, suggesting a growing discontent within the ranks.

This rift has been characterised by Ritabrata Banerjee, the Leader of the Opposition, as a significant struggle against authoritarianism. He described the split as a fight for democratic principles and collective decision-making against the backdrop of increasing centralisation of power. Conversely, BJP leaders have downplayed the internal conflicts within the TMC, claiming the party’s relevance is waning.

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