Koel Mallick, an actor-politician and Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP, resigned from the Upper House on Thursday [1].
The departure signals a deepening internal crisis for the TMC, as the party loses its grip on key legislative seats in New Delhi. The exit of a high-profile figure like Mallick suggests growing instability within the party's ranks during a critical political period.
Mallick is the fourth TMC member of the Rajya Sabha to resign in recent days [1]. Reports indicate that four MPs have quit the house within a four-day span [3]. This rapid exodus has significantly reduced the party's presence in the Upper House, leaving the TMC with a total strength of nine members [1].
The resignations come amid speculation that party leader Mamata Banerjee's control over the organization is weakening [1]. While the party has not issued a formal statement detailing the specific reasons for each departure, the timing coincides with reported internal friction [2].
Mallick, who represented West Bengal, has balanced a career in cinema with her political duties as an MP [1]. Her decision to step down is viewed as a fresh blow to Banerjee's leadership as the party struggles to maintain its cohesion [2]. The loss of these seats limits the TMC's ability to influence legislation, and voice its agenda in the Upper House.
Observers said that the sudden loss of four legislators in less than a week is an unusual occurrence for the party. The shrinking numbers in the Rajya Sabha may complicate the TMC's strategy for upcoming legislative battles and regional political maneuvering in West Bengal [1].
“Four TMC MPs have quit in four days”
The rapid loss of four Rajya Sabha seats in four days indicates a systemic failure in party discipline or a coordinated internal revolt. For Mamata Banerjee, the shrinking legislative footprint in New Delhi reduces her party's bargaining power and suggests that the internal crisis may be more severe than previously acknowledged.
