In a significant development within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Barasat MP and close aide of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, has resigned from key party positions. The move has sparked speculation about growing internal fissures within the ruling party in West Bengal.
Resignation from Party Posts
Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a three-time MP from Barasat, submitted her resignation from the posts of party vice-president and chairperson of the TMC's women's wing on Tuesday. In her letter to party chief Mamata Banerjee, she cited personal reasons for stepping down, but political observers believe it reflects deeper discontent within the party ranks.
Reasons Behind the Resignation
While the official statement from Ghosh Dastidar mentions health and family commitments, sources indicate that she was unhappy with the party's organizational decisions in her constituency. Reports suggest that she felt sidelined in the distribution of party responsibilities and development funds. The resignation comes ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, raising questions about the party's unity.
Mamata Banerjee's Response
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accepted the resignation but expressed regret over the decision. In a brief statement, she praised Ghosh Dastidar's contributions to the party and hoped she would reconsider. However, no immediate steps have been taken to fill the vacant posts, indicating a possible reshuffle in the party hierarchy.
Impact on TMC's Internal Dynamics
This is not the first instance of senior leaders quitting key posts in the TMC. Earlier this year, several district-level leaders had resigned, citing similar grievances. The latest development is seen as a blow to the party's image, especially after its thumping victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Political analysts believe that the party needs to address internal dissent to maintain its stronghold in the state.
Reactions from Opposition
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress have seized upon the resignation, calling it a sign of crumbling leadership in the TMC. BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar said, 'The TMC is falling apart. Internal squabbles will lead to its downfall.' The Congress also criticized the party's functioning, demanding a probe into the reasons behind the resignation.
Future of Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar
Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has not indicated any plans to leave the TMC or join another party. She remains an MP and has assured her supporters that she will continue to work for the people of Barasat. However, her resignation from key posts suggests a diminished role in the party's decision-making process.
The TMC leadership is likely to initiate damage control measures to prevent further exits. With the 2026 assembly elections on the horizon, the party cannot afford internal strife. The coming weeks will be crucial for the party as it attempts to consolidate its position and address the grievances of its leaders.
