Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (TMC) and a rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee are fighting for control of the Trinamool Congress party symbol and headquarters.

The struggle represents a critical divide within the All India Trinamool Congress, as both sides seek the legal legitimacy required to claim the party's official identity. Control over the party's name and symbol is essential for candidates to contest elections under the TMC banner.

The conflict intensified on July 3 and 4, 2026 [1], when the rebel faction took physical control of Trinamool Bhavan in Kolkata. Reports indicate that the rebels seized the headquarters and locked out the camp loyal to the chief minister [2].

"The rebels have taken control of Trinamool Bhavan; we are locked out," Banerjee said [3].

The dispute centers on the legal status of the party office. The rebel faction alleges that the lease for the building has expired. However, Banerjee said the lease remains valid until 2027 [4].

Building owners reportedly opened the locks of Trinamool Bhavan as the battle for the office intensified [5]. This physical takeover has shifted the conflict from political disagreements to a legal and territorial dispute over party assets.

"We have taken control of the party headquarters to protect the party’s legacy," Ritabrata Banerjee said [6].

Both factions have filed legal challenges to determine the rightful ownership of the party's name and symbol. Banerjee said she is prepared for a prolonged legal battle regardless of the office's status.

"I will fight any legal challenge and my residence will serve as the party office if needed," Banerjee said [7].

“"The rebels have taken control of Trinamool Bhavan; we are locked out."”

This internal schism threatens the stability of the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. By seizing the physical headquarters and challenging the party symbol, the Ritabrata Banerjee faction is attempting to strip Mamata Banerjee of the administrative machinery of the party. The outcome of the legal battle over the 2027 lease and the party symbol will determine which faction maintains the official brand and the ability to field candidates in future elections.