Mamata Banerjee Calls for Swift Resolution in TMC Ownership Dispute

Mamata Banerjee, the former chief minister of West Bengal, has made a strong appeal to the Election Commission (EC) to expedite its investigation regarding the ongoing dispute over the leadership of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). In her correspondence with EC Secretary Ashwani Kumar Mohal, she emphasized that the opposing faction, led by Ritabrata Banerjee, has not provided any responses despite being granted multiple extensions. Banerjee's letter, sent on Wednesday, reflects her urgency for the EC to finalize the inquiry, citing the significant political implications this matter holds for West Bengal. The outcome of the EC's decision will be crucial in determining which faction is recognized as the legitimate All India Trinamool Congress, impacting the party's name, election symbol, organizational authority, and financial resources.

In her letter, Banerjee referred to the EC's communication dated July 2, noting that her faction had submitted a comprehensive response by July 6, adhering to the deadline despite limited preparation time. She pointed out that a copy of this response was also sent to Ritabrata Banerjee via email and speed post, as per the Commission's instructions. Initially, the EC had requested a response from Ritabrata Banerjee by July 6, which was later extended to July 10 and then to July 25 at his request. Banerjee highlighted that the opposing faction has yet to submit any response, stating, "Even after July 25, 2026, we have not been informed whether Shri Ritabrata Banerjee has submitted his reply or not, and if he has replied, no such copy has been provided to us." This lack of communication led her to conclude that no response had been made.