'Choose between me and Abhishek': Kalyan Banerjee exposes TMC's growing fault lines

Kalyan Banerjee, a four-time Member of Parliament and recently appointed chief whip for the Trinamool Congress in the Lok Sabha, has openly declared his rebellion against the party's general secretary, Abhishek Banerjee. In a dramatic public statement, Banerjee demanded that party chief Mamata Banerjee make a choice between him and her nephew.

“

It’s either him or me

Banerjee, a 69-year-old lawyer-turned-lawmaker, accused Abhishek Banerjee of arrogance and mistreatment, likening himself to a "dustbin." He specifically pointed to a recent incident where he was allegedly sidelined from a legal case despite his extensive experience. "It’s too much arrogance. Look what it has done to the party," Banerjee told Hindustan Times, adding, "I have always said that you can be my leader only when you win Tripura or Goa."

This public spat underscores significant fault lines within the Trinamool Congress. A group of around 60 legislators and 16 Lok Sabha MPs have reportedly voiced similar grievances against Abhishek Banerjee's alleged high-handedness. Banerjee's outburst, occurring at a time when the party is facing significant political challenges, is seen as a major blow.

“

I have told Derek (O’Brien) that Mamata Banerjee has to choose -- it’s either him (Abhishek Banerjee) or me. It’s too much arrogance. Look what it has done to the party. I have always said that you can be my leader only when you win Tripura or Goa.

Derek O’Brien, recently appointed a general secretary amidst the party's internal turmoil, has stated he will consult Mamata Banerjee before responding to Kalyan Banerjee. This internal conflict raises questions about the party's stability and leadership as it navigates a crucial period.

“

Don’t treat me like a dustbin