An unprecedented internal conflict within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has escalated to the national stage, with rival factions led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee set to press their claims before the Election Commission of India (ECI). Sources indicate that a faction loyal to Ritabrata will meet the full bench of the poll panel in New Delhi on Thursday, including Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, in what is being seen as a decisive moment in the battle for control of the party.
The confrontation follows a dramatic escalation earlier this week, when the rebel faction convened a special session in New Town and attempted to remove Mamata from her position as party chairperson. In a first since the party’s inception, the group also announced the formation of a parallel “National Working Committee,” effectively splitting the organisational structure.
Soon after, a five-member delegation led by Ritabrata approached the office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Kolkata. While initially maintaining silence over the purpose of their visit, the rebel leader later asserted that his faction represented the “real” TMC.
“We informed the Commission that a new committee has been formed. We are the Trinamool. There is no need to stake a separate claim to the party symbol,” Ritabrata said, claiming that two-thirds of the party’s MLAs were backing his group.
Legal preparations have also intensified, with a team of lawyers representing the rebel faction visiting the Election Commission’s headquarters in Delhi to examine procedural requirements related to their claim.
Meanwhile, Mamata’s camp has moved swiftly to counter the challenge. The former Chief Minister has reportedly submitted a fresh list for a reconstituted committee to the Election Commission, signing it in her capacity as party chairperson, thereby reinforcing her claim over the organisation.
Political observers believe the dispute could escalate further and may eventually reach the Supreme Court. For now, however, all eyes are on Thursday’s high-stakes meeting in Delhi, which could shape the future of one of West Bengal’s most influential political parties.
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