The Trinamool Congress (TMC)’s annual ‘Martyrs’ Day’ rally assumed an unprecedented political tone this year, marking the first observance since the party’s internal split. Parallel programmes were held across Kolkata, underscoring the deepening divide within the party.

While a faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee organised a separate gathering at Mayo Road, the main TMC camp under Mamata Banerjee held its rally near the Birla Planetarium. The dual events highlighted the fragmentation within the party, a first in the history of the July 21 observance.

Addressing a large gathering from the Planetarium stage, Mamata Banerjee launched a strong attack on leaders who have recently defected from the party. Without naming Ritabrata Banerjee directly, she labelled the breakaway faction as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s “B-team,” alleging that their separate mobilisation was indirectly aiding the BJP.

“We are better off; the thieves are moving to the BJP. There is no need to act as a mere prop for them—join the BJP directly,” she said, asserting that the party’s student and youth wings would replace those who have left.

Targeting Suvendu Adhikari

The Chief Minister also targeted Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, accusing the current dispensation of attempting to weaken the TMC through political manoeuvres instead of focusing on governance.

In a veiled warning, she said, “If I open my mouth, I will tear off the mask and reveal everything you did during your years in Trinamool.”

Her remarks echoed a similar position she had taken earlier this year, when she reminded Adhikari of his long tenure within the TMC and the key responsibilities he held during that period.

‘We are the real Trinamool’

Reasserting her leadership, Mamata Banerjee declared that her camp represents the “real Trinamool,” dismissing claims made by the rival faction.
“Merely putting up a signboard does not make a party. A few leaders have left, but the grassroots workers remain with us,” she said, emphasising that the party’s core strength lies with its cadre base.

Taking a final dig at defectors, Banerjee remarked, “We no longer need you. May you prosper in wealth, honour, and health. The new struggle will be fought by the new generation.”

Political observers believe that Mamata Banerjee’s aggressive tone at this year’s July 21 rally—her first major address since the party split—signals a sharpening of political confrontation, both within the TMC and against the BJP, in the months ahead.

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