In a political controversy that has sparked widespread discussion, Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee confirmed on April 8 that a heated spat occurred at Nirvachan Sadan, the headquarters of the Election Commission of India, involving him and a fellow woman MP from the party. This revelation followed allegations by the BJP and leaked visuals shared by BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya, showing Banerjee engaged in a visibly agitated conversation.

The incident, which has since gone viral, has exposed the internal strife brewing within the TMC, especially at a critical juncture when the party is preparing for the general elections.

Kalyan Banerjee’s Stand: Willing to Resign but Not to Tolerate ‘Insolence’

Banerjee did not shy away from addressing the issue. In fact, he made a bold declaration:
“If Mamata Banerjee asks me to step down, I will resign from public life.”

He further alleged that the woman MP involved in the spat behaved arrogantly, saying:
“Just because she is a good-looking woman and speaks fluent English doesn’t mean she can insult others.”

Kalyan Banerjee emphasized that his fight was not for personal gain or popularity but for principles and the people. His statement reflects a deep sense of frustration with what he perceives as showmanship and entitlement within the party ranks.

The Spark Behind the Spat

The clash reportedly occurred on the same day the Supreme Court rejected the West Bengal government’s appeal against a Calcutta High Court verdict in the teachers' recruitment scam.

The TMC delegation was at the EC office to raise concerns about duplicate voter ID cards, a sensitive electoral issue. According to Banerjee, the unnamed woman MP neither signed the memorandum nor participated with the rest of the group but arrived independently at the EC headquarters. He alleged that she even tried to invoke her power as an MP to get him arrested by CISF officers present on duty, claiming he behaved abusively.

Accusations Fly: Personal and Political Grievances Surface

Banerjee revealed deeper frustrations during his remarks:

• He claimed the MP had previously verbally abused both him and his daughter in Parliament.

• He accused her of trying to hog the limelight, stating, “She speaks for one industrialist against another... She attacks only Narendra Modi. Has she ever said anything against Amit Shah?”

• He also accused her of objecting to his speech on the Waqf Bill, suggesting that ideological differences were part of their discord.

These accusations hint at larger ideological and ego-based conflicts within the TMC’s top brass.

“Not a Quota Leader” – Banerjee Highlights His Loyalty

Kalyan Banerjee made it a point to underline his long-term loyalty and dedication to the party:
“I am not from another party. I am not a quota leader. I fought against the CPM.”

This statement seems to be a veiled jab at those who might have joined the party after it came to power or who may have been promoted due to factors other than political struggle.

Embarrassment for the Party: Sougata Roy Reacts

Veteran TMC MP Sougata Roy called the situation shameful and embarrassing, pointing out that the leaked screenshots and videos have brought disrepute to the party.

Roy’s public regret indicates growing concerns within the party leadership about how such internal disputes being aired publicly could affect TMC’s image and electoral prospects.

Role of BJP in Escalating the Matter

The issue gained public attention after Amit Malviya posted WhatsApp chat screenshots and video clips showing Banerjee’s outburst and controversial remarks. The BJP has seized the opportunity to portray TMC as a divided house, further pressuring the party amid an intense election season.

The Supreme Court Verdict Adds Pressure

Interestingly, the timing of the spat coincides with the Supreme Court’s refusal to entertain West Bengal’s plea in the teachers’ recruitment scam case. With TMC already on the defensive, this intra-party drama has only added fuel to the fire.

Public Reactions and Speculations

The incident has sparked varied reactions on social media:

• Some users are praising Banerjee’s honesty and willingness to quit if asked.

• Others are condemning his sexist remarks and tone towards a fellow parliamentarian.

• Political analysts suggest this reflects larger fractures within the TMC, particularly between old guards and emerging leaders.

What This Means for TMC Ahead of Elections

The public airing of internal conflicts, especially involving senior MPs, could potentially damage TMC’s credibility and public image. The timing—so close to elections—makes the situation even more precarious.

Moreover, with social media amplifying every leaked video and chat, political parties are under more scrutiny than ever. Leadership from Mamata Banerjee will be crucial in diffusing the situation and ensuring party unity.

Conclusion: A Test of TMC’s Internal Cohesion

This episode isn’t just a political squabble. It’s a test of internal discipline and leadership within one of India’s most influential regional parties. Kalyan Banerjee’s readiness to quit, coupled with his scathing attack on a fellow MP, shows deep-rooted divisions that could resurface at any moment unless effectively addressed.

Whether Mamata Banerjee chooses to stand by Kalyan Banerjee, reprimand both parties, or let time heal the wounds remains to be seen. But one thing is clear — the internal harmony of the TMC is under public microscope like never before.

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