Mamata Crisis Deepens: Bengal TMC Chief Chandrima Bhattacharya Resigns

Kolkata (IANS): The crisis within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) escalated on Saturday as newly elected West Bengal state president Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from her post. Bhattacharya cited a total loss of trust after party chairperson and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee questioned her integrity regarding the rebel takeover of the party headquarters.

The resignation directly follows a dramatic Friday night incident where a rebel MLA faction—led by Ritabrata Banerjee—seized control of the TMC state headquarters at Metropolitan, near Kolkata’s EM Bypass.

“My Loyalty Was Unquestionable” — Bhattacharya Breaks Silence

Speaking to sections of the media, Bhattacharya revealed that Mamata Banerjee’s confrontational reaction to the headquarters takeover triggered her sudden exit.

“Mamata Banerjee questioned how I could hand over the party office to the rebel camp. I was deeply saddened by this question. When anyone raises doubts about my integrity, it is no longer right for me to continue in the party’s top post. My loyalty was unquestionable. With a heavy heart, I have decided to quit. There is no question of going back to Kalighat,” Bhattacharya stated.

Total Severance of Party Ties

Bhattacharya, who previously served as the Minister of State for Finance (Independent Charge) under Mamata’s government, severed her ties with the party. In a formal resignation letter addressed directly to “Didi,” she relinquished:

• The post of TMC West Bengal State President (which she assumed on June 3, 2026).
• All other internal organizational posts and responsibilities.
• Her authority as the primary authorized signatory for all TMC bank accounts.
• Her status as the TMC’s official representative before the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Despite the sharp political break, Bhattacharya concluded her letter by noting she would “always remain respectful” toward the party chairperson.

Next Moves Remain Uncertain

The resignation follows days of intense speculation. Just recently, Bhattacharya’s son, Saurav (a former Kolkata Municipal Corporation councillor), defected to the “rebel but majority” TMC faction led by the expelled Ritabrata Banerjee in the West Bengal Assembly.

While Saurav’s defection signalled a growing rift, Chandrima Bhattacharya has not yet clarified her next move. The veteran leader has yet to declare whether she will formally join the rebel camp, defect to an opposition party, or retire from active politics altogether.