Kolkata: In a strong reaffirmation of her leadership, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday quelled rumors of a potential power struggle within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), specifically involving her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee.
Speaking at a meeting with TMC legislators at the state assembly, Mamata firmly stated that she remains the undisputed leader of the party. As reported by The Times of India, she declared, “I am still here. I am the final word (in the party). I and Bakshi Da (TMC state president Subrata Bakshi) will look after the party.”
Mamata also emphasized the egalitarian structure of the party, noting that party members are equal, regardless of their current positions. “Someone may be a minister today and a legislator tomorrow,” she added.
Her remarks came amidst growing speculation about shifting power dynamics within the TMC, particularly after a reshuffle of the party’s national working committee, which saw the induction of several loyalists to Mamata’s leadership, strengthening her hold on the organization.
Tensions within the party had been escalating in recent weeks, with some TMC leaders openly advocating for a more prominent role for Abhishek Banerjee. TMC MLA Humayun Kabir, for example, called for Abhishek’s elevation to the post of state home minister, while former minister Madan Mitra suggested that Abhishek’s increased involvement in governance could infuse the party with new energy. Additionally, senior TMC MP Saugata Roy backed the idea of Abhishek taking on a larger role, citing his trustworthiness among both the party leadership and its grassroots supporters.
However, Mamata swiftly rejected such proposals, asserting her continued dominance within the party.
Abhishek Banerjee’s rising visibility, particularly through his recent outreach efforts in Diamond Harbour, his Lok Sabha constituency, has contributed to the speculation about his political future. During an event to address protests related to the RG Kar rape-murder case, Abhishek engaged with local doctors, signaling a broader public presence. Nevertheless, the TMC’s support base in the districts appears intact, as evidenced by the party’s strong performance in the recent bypolls, where it won all six contested seats.
In contrast, the Left and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) both struggled in the bypolls, with the Left failing to secure any victories and even losing deposits in all constituencies, while the BJP also faltered in retaining its Madarihat seat.
Despite the internal debates, Mamata Banerjee’s leadership remains unchallenged, with the TMC’s recent electoral success further consolidating her position at the helm of the party.
