Tragic Discovery: TMC Leader's Niece Found Dead in Birbhum

In a tragic incident, Bristi Mukherjee, the niece of TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, was found hanging at her home in Birbhum district. The 28-year-old had been struggling with depression and faced significant personal challenges, including job loss and divorce proceedings. Authorities are conducting an investigation to ascertain the circumstances of her death, with a post-mortem examination underway. Family members expressed concern over her mental health and noted her recent withdrawal from social interactions. The police have registered a case of unnatural death and are questioning relatives as part of their inquiry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 1, 2026, 17:28 IST

Investigation Underway After Niece of TMC Chief Found Deceased

Kolkata: The niece of TMC leader and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bristi Mukherjee, was discovered hanging at her home in Birbhum district on Tuesday, according to police reports.

Bristi Mukherjee, aged 28 and the daughter of Banerjee's maternal cousin Nihar Mukherjee, was found in a room on the second floor of her residence located in Kusumba village, Rampurhat area, as confirmed by a senior police officer.

Nihar Mukherjee had previously held the position of president for the Trinamool Congress in the Rampurhat-I block.

The authorities have sent Bristi's body for a post-mortem examination at the Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital. An investigation is currently in progress, with the exact circumstances surrounding her death to be determined following the autopsy and other necessary inquiries.

Family members revealed that Bristi had been battling depression and was on medication for several years.

They also mentioned that she had been experiencing significant personal and professional pressures.

According to her family, Bristi lost her Group C position at Bolpur High School due to a court ruling that annulled recruitments in government-aided institutions over alleged selection process irregularities during the previous TMC administration.

Additionally, she was undergoing divorce proceedings, which had further contributed to her emotional turmoil in recent months.

A family member stated, "Bristi was found hanging in her room. A white dhoti was tied to the ceiling fan, with the other end around her neck."

Another relative noted, "Bristi preferred to stay alone in her room and had not communicated much with us. None of us saw her in the last few days."

The police have registered a case of unnatural death and are questioning family members as part of their investigation.

One officer remarked, "It could potentially be a suicide. An investigation is underway to determine the precise cause of death. No conclusions will be drawn regarding the circumstances until the post-mortem and other investigative aspects are completed."