TMC Faces Major Crisis as Resignations Surge in West Bengal

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is experiencing a severe crisis in West Bengal, marked by a wave of resignations from its councilors following a disappointing electoral performance. Senior leaders are voicing their discontent, and unrest in TMC-controlled municipalities is escalating. With nearly 100 councilors resigning recently, the BJP is poised to capitalize on this turmoil. The situation has become so critical that several municipal boards may face dissolution ahead of the upcoming elections. Additionally, the mysterious death of a prominent TMC councilor has raised further concerns, highlighting the party's struggles in maintaining its influence in the region. This article delves into the unfolding political drama within the TMC.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2026, 18:58 IST

TMC's Declining Influence in West Bengal

Once a dominant force under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) appears to be weakening following a significant defeat in the Bengal elections. Senior leaders like Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar are openly expressing their dissatisfaction, while collective resignations are occurring due to unrest in TMC-controlled municipalities. In recent days, nearly 100 councilors from various municipalities have stepped down. This political turmoil has provided the BJP with an opportunity to strengthen its foothold in areas that were predominantly under TMC's influence. The situation has escalated to the point where several municipal boards may be dissolved ahead of the elections scheduled for next year. According to reports, close associates of Mamata, including Kolkata's Mayor Firhad Hakim, have indicated a desire to resign. Despite Mamata's recent appeal to councilors to refrain from resigning, signs of unrest in Bengal's municipalities are emerging almost daily. Undoubtedly, this represents the most severe crisis for TMC since Mamata founded the party after breaking away from Congress in 1998. Previously, Mamata played a crucial role in maintaining unity, but the current circumstances are markedly different.

Mass Resignations in TMC

The wave of resignations began after the government led by Suvendu Adhikari announced a thorough investigation into the past activities of local bodies, promising action based on the findings. In some municipalities, TMC councilors have completely ceased attending their offices. Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul stated that the government has started appointing administrators in these municipalities. The ongoing arrests of TMC-affiliated councilors on charges of corruption and extortion have further heightened tensions. Last week, three councilors were arrested on allegations of extortion and threats.

Concerns Raised by Mysterious Deaths

The mysterious death of influential TMC councilor Sanjay Das on May 23 has deepened the atmosphere of concern. Das, known to be close to TMC leader Debraj Chakraborty and facing allegations of corruption and extortion, was found hanging last week. An unnatural death case has been registered. Central agencies are investigating Chakraborty for alleged irregularities in the recruitment process conducted by the municipal corporation. Former TMC minister Sujit Bose has already been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with this case. Municipalities in North 24 Parganas and surrounding industrial areas have been the hardest hit. In the Bhatarpara municipality, 30 out of 35 councilors, including chairperson Reba Raha, have resigned. Nearby, in the Halishahar municipality, 16 out of 23 councilors have stepped down. In Kanchrapara municipality, 14 councilors have also resigned.