Dr Baidyanath Ghosh, son of rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kakoli Ghosh, has announced that he will return all gifts received from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and send a legal notice over her recent remarks. The statement came amid an escalating political confrontation between the TMC leadership and a dissident group of party MPs led by his mother.
Background of the Conflict
The rift between the TMC high command and the dissident MPs, including Kakoli Ghosh, has been widening over the past few weeks. The dissidents have expressed dissatisfaction with the party's functioning and leadership style. Mamata Banerjee, in a recent public address, made remarks that were perceived as targeting the rebel MPs, prompting a strong response from the Ghosh family.
Dr Baidyanath Ghosh's Response
In a press conference held on June 14, 2026, Dr Ghosh stated, "I have decided to return all gifts given to me by Mamata Banerjee. Additionally, I will be sending a legal notice to her for her defamatory comments against my mother." He emphasized that the move was not personal but a stand against what he called "unwarranted attacks on a dedicated party worker."
Political Implications
Political analysts view this development as a significant escalation in the internal strife within the TMC. The dissident group, which includes several MPs and MLAs, has been vocal about their grievances, including lack of consultation in decision-making and marginalization of senior leaders. The return of gifts and legal notice could further strain relations within the party.
Reactions from TMC Leadership
The TMC leadership has not officially responded to Dr Ghosh's announcement. However, party insiders suggest that the high command is keen on resolving the issue internally to avoid any damage to the party's image ahead of the upcoming elections. Some leaders have called for disciplinary action against the dissidents, while others advocate for reconciliation.
Next Steps
Dr Ghosh confirmed that the legal notice would be sent within a week, detailing the specific remarks that he considers defamatory. He also mentioned that he would return the gifts, which include items received during various party functions and personal occasions, to the Chief Minister's office. The move has garnered mixed reactions from the public and political circles, with some supporting the stand and others criticizing it as a breach of party discipline.
Conclusion
The ongoing confrontation between the TMC leadership and the dissident MPs represents one of the most serious challenges to party unity in recent years. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how Mamata Banerjee and the TMC high command will address the growing dissent. The return of gifts and legal notice by Kakoli Ghosh's son adds a new dimension to the political drama in West Bengal.
