Those under pressure should quit before July 21: Mamata after Koel Mallick’s Rajya Sabha exit

Mamata Urges Dissenters to Quit Before July 21

Bharatmorningnews.com – In a recent statement, Mamata Banerjee, the leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), emphasized that those under pressure should quit before July 21, highlighting the importance of unity ahead of the Martyrs’ Day rally. This event is a critical moment for the party, as it seeks to reaffirm its strength and cohesion in the face of growing internal challenges. Banerjee’s message underscores the need for party members to make decisive choices regarding their allegiance, especially as external forces attempt to sway their commitments.

Koel Mallick’s Resignation Sparks Debate

Banerjee’s remarks came after the resignation of Koel Mallick, a Rajya Sabha MP and former film artist. Mallick had previously reached out to BJP minister Bhupender Yadav, following an email exchange with TMC leadership. In a Facebook Live session, Banerjee expressed respect for Mallick’s artistic contributions while acknowledging her decision to resign. “Another MP, also a respected film personality, met a BJP leader and resigned today,” she noted, stressing that Mallick’s departure would not weaken the party’s foundation.

“Those under pressure from the BJP or external agencies—such as the police, ED, CBI, or STF—should decide their exit before July 21,” Banerjee asserted. “If you believe you can only endure by yielding, feel free to join the BJP. But do not damage the party we’ve built together.”

Internal Dynamics and Leadership Struggles

Mallick’s exit follows the defection of three former TMC MPs—Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik—who were offered Rajya Sabha tickets by the BJP for vacant seats. These departures have intensified factional tensions within the TMC, with some members questioning the party’s ability to retain its core supporters. Banerjee accused the administration of exerting pressure on the families of martyrs scheduled to attend the rally, encouraging them to align with the BJP instead of remaining loyal to the TMC.

She pointed out that these families have supported the party for four decades, and their recent shift to the rebels raises concerns about the party’s stability. “Fear or financial temptation is temporary,” Banerjee said, adding that their loyalty remains invaluable regardless of the pressures they face. “Let them try to erase our name and symbol. Stay healthy, stay safe, and protect yourselves.”

Meanwhile, the TMC’s strength in the Lok Sabha has also suffered after 20 rebel MPs, including long-time allies like Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Kakali Ghosh Dastidar, left to join the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) and align with the BJP-led NDA. This move has further complicated the party’s political landscape, as internal conflicts continue to challenge its unity.

Banerjee also appealed to the administration to remain impartial, warning that political tensions in Delhi could spill over into local dynamics. “Life is long. If the capital faces upheaval, the situation here will shift as well,” she added, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to maintain the party’s integrity.

Looking ahead, Banerjee expressed confidence that July 21 would be a turning point for the TMC. “If we could start anew in 1997, we can do so again in 2026,” she concluded, reaffirming her commitment to rebuilding the party’s strength. Her call for dissenters to step down before the rally reflects a strategic effort to consolidate support and prepare for the upcoming political showdown.