Manoj Tiwari Accuses TMC of Corruption and Mismanagement in West Bengal Politics

Allegations Against TMC

Former cricketer and West Bengal minister Manoj Tiwari has made serious allegations against the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Following TMC's defeat in the recent elections, Tiwari declared that the party's chapter is now over. He revealed that he was denied a ticket this time because he refused to pay a bribe of 5 crore rupees. Tiwari had previously won the Shibpur assembly seat in 2021 on a TMC ticket and served as a minister in the Bengal government.

TMC's Candidate Replacement

Instead of Tiwari, TMC nominated Dr. Rana Chatterjee, who was defeated by BJP's Rudranil Ghosh. Tiwari, a 40-year-old former batsman and the highest run-scorer in Bengal's cricket history with 10,195 first-class runs, has stirred controversy with his claims. He also mentioned that Arup Biswas, another TMC leader, felt insecure around him, which led to him being sidelined from ministerial duties.

Tiwari's Interview Insights

In an interview, Tiwari expressed that he was not surprised by the TMC's defeat, attributing it to widespread corruption and lack of development within the party. He stated, 'Only those who could pay hefty sums were able to secure tickets. At least 70 to 72 candidates reportedly paid around 5 crore rupees for their nominations. I was also asked for money but refused. Look at how many of those who paid actually won.' He emphasized that his association with TMC is now completely over.

Political Aspirations and Experiences

Tiwari clarified that he never intended to enter politics, despite TMC's offer for a Lok Sabha ticket in 2019. He eventually contested the assembly elections in 2021, believing he could bring about meaningful change. He recounted, 'I was playing for Punjab Kings in the IPL and was focused on the Ranji Trophy when Didi (Mamata Banerjee) wanted me to run for Lok Sabha. I politely declined, but later she asked me to contest from Shibpur, and I thought I could make a difference.'

Concerns Over Internal Democracy

Tiwari criticized TMC for its lack of internal democracy, stating, 'In meetings where all ministers were called, I was merely given a 'lollipop' as a state minister, which held no real significance. If I tried to raise issues, Didi would cut me off, saying she had no time for us.' He highlighted persistent issues in Howrah's sewage and drainage systems that remained unresolved despite his efforts.

Addressing Extortion Allegations

Tiwari also faced accusations of extorting money from builders in his constituency. He defended himself, saying, 'When I submitted my income affidavit before the 2021 elections, I declared having 20 crore rupees in cash. I have played IPL for ten years and have been part of the Indian team for many years. I have no need for extorted money. There were local councilors who regularly wrote to Didi about me, making false allegations.'

Feeling Undermined by Colleagues

Tiwari expressed feeling disrespected by state sports minister Arup Biswas, who he claimed did not allow him to fulfill his ministerial responsibilities due to his own insecurities. He noted, 'Arup da knows nothing about sports. There were many events where both of us were invited, but I was never called to the stage. After my pictures appeared in the sports pages during the Durand Cup unveiling, I was not invited to the next event.'

Future Aspirations

Tiwari is relieved he did not attend a recent event featuring football star Lionel Messi, which ended in chaos due to overcrowding. He aims to become the head coach of Bengal's Ranji team after passing the BCCI Level 2 coaching exam.