Kalyan Banerjee, a senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament, described the party's internal rift as a "black chapter" in West Bengal's political history.
The public criticism from a high-ranking official signals a deepening crisis within the ruling party, potentially weakening its stability in the region.
Speaking in Kolkata on June 13, 2026 [1], Banerjee addressed the recent wave of defections and the factionalism currently gripping the party. He said the internal discord reflects a level of instability not seen in previous dominant parties within the state [1], [2].
Banerjee targeted the leadership style of Abhishek Banerjee, suggesting that internal friction is being driven by personality clashes. "Abhishek Banerjee is arrogant and responsible for the party's growing troubles," Banerjee said [3].
The lawmaker noted that the ongoing defections threaten party unity. This turmoil has already led to official complaints, including one filed by Kakoli Ghosh against Banerjee to the Lok Sabha speaker [2].
Despite the party's current dominance in West Bengal, the public nature of these disputes suggests a breakdown in internal mediation. Banerjee said the current situation represents a "black spot" on the state's political landscape [1].
The rift comes at a time when the TMC must maintain a cohesive front to manage state governance and electoral challenges. The tension between the party's established veterans and its younger leadership continues to surface in public forums, complicating the party's internal hierarchy.
“"This is a black chapter in Bengal's political history."”
The public condemnation of party leadership by a senior MP suggests that the Trinamool Congress is experiencing a systemic breakdown in internal discipline. By framing the rift as a historical 'black chapter,' Banerjee is highlighting a shift from private disagreement to public fracture, which may encourage further defections and embolden political opponents in West Bengal.
