Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 8: The political future of the All India Trinamool Congress appears increasingly uncertain as the party grapples with a growing internal rebellion, leadership challenges and the fallout from its recent electoral setback in West Bengal.
Once celebrated for ending the 34-year rule of the Left Front in 2011, the Trinamool Congress is now confronting one of the most serious crises in its history. A combination of organisational strain, allegations of corruption, factional disputes and declining cohesion has exposed deep fault lines within the party.
The latest challenge emerged after a breakaway group of 58 out of the party's 80 MLAs reportedly sought recognition as the "original" Trinamool Congress in the West Bengal Assembly. The rebellion appears to have expanded to the national level, with reports suggesting that 20 of the party's 28 Lok Sabha MPs have approached the Speaker's office with a similar demand.
The developments come at a time when the party's parliamentary strength has already been reduced by one vacancy following the death of the sitting MP from Basirhat.
Adding to the turmoil, veteran Rajya Sabha member Sukhendu Sekhar Roy announced his resignation from both the Upper House and the party. Roy, whose term was due to continue until 2029, had increasingly distanced himself from the leadership in recent years.
He had openly supported protests seeking justice in the aftermath of the RG Kar Medical College incident and later voiced concerns regarding corruption and governance issues within the party. His departure is being viewed as another sign of growing dissatisfaction among senior leaders.
Political analysts note that the crisis has also reignited scrutiny of the party's leadership structure. While party founder Mamata Banerjee remains the most influential face of the organisation, critics argue that the party has become increasingly disconnected from its grassroots support base.
Attention has also turned to Abhishek Banerjee, who has played a central role in organisational affairs. Detractors within the party have questioned strategic decisions and the increasing reliance on professional political consultants, arguing that such approaches may not fully reflect West Bengal's unique political landscape.
The rebellion has drawn comparisons with political developments in Maharashtra, where splits within the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party eventually resulted in rival factions claiming legitimacy and recognition.
A key figure in the current TMC dissent is former parliamentarian Ritabrata Banerjee, who is reported to have emerged as a prominent voice among the rebel legislators. At the national level, senior leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar is said to be coordinating efforts among dissident MPs.
Dastidar, who had earlier resigned from organisational responsibilities after being removed as party whip, has reportedly sought recognition for the rebel group in Parliament. Sources indicate that she believes procedural aspects relating to her removal have not yet been formally completed before the Speaker's office.
The internal crisis comes against the backdrop of multiple controversies that have affected the party's public image in recent years. Incidents such as the Sandeshkhali controversy, the RG Kar case and recurring allegations of corruption have fueled criticism from opponents and raised questions about accountability within the organisation.
Observers note that the situation carries historical echoes. The Left Front's long-standing dominance in West Bengal ended amid allegations of political arrogance, corruption and a disconnect from public sentiment. Movements in Singur and Nandigram became turning points that reshaped the state's political landscape and propelled Mamata Banerjee to power.
Today, critics argue that the Trinamool Congress risks facing similar challenges if it fails to address concerns over governance, transparency and internal democracy.
While any formal recognition of rebel factions will ultimately depend on decisions by constitutional authorities and legislative bodies, the ongoing unrest signals a defining moment for the party. Whether the Trinamool can overcome its internal divisions or faces a prolonged period of fragmentation may shape the future of West Bengal politics in the years ahead.