Mamata Banerjee's Political Maneuvering After Bengal Election Loss
Following a significant electoral defeat in Bengal, Mamata Banerjee is reportedly seeking to reclaim a parliamentary seat by persuading TMC MP Yusuf Pathan to resign. This move comes amidst a turbulent period for the TMC, which is grappling with internal dissent and a leadership crisis. Former cricketer Sourav Ganguly has denied involvement in these political maneuvers, emphasizing the need for truth in media reporting. As the party faces challenges ahead of the 2026 assembly elections, many leaders are expressing dissatisfaction and considering leaving the party. Read on for a deeper insight into the unfolding political drama.
| Jun 6, 2026, 18:49 IST
Political Moves Following Election Defeat
After suffering a significant defeat in the recent elections in Bengal, where Mamata Banerjee lost the Bhabanipur seat to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, reports have emerged suggesting that she is attempting to enter Parliament by asking TMC MP Yusuf Pathan to vacate the Baharampur seat. A report from a local media outlet indicated that former cricketer Sourav Ganguly had reached out to Pathan on Banerjee's behalf, urging him to resign from his position to allow the former Chief Minister to contest a by-election from that seat.
Yusuf Pathan, a former cricketer, made headlines by defeating veteran Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in his political debut during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Baharampur is considered a stronghold for the TMC, with a Muslim population of around 50-52%. However, Ganguly later denied having contacted Pathan regarding his resignation, labeling the claims as a gross misrepresentation of the truth.
He stated that the allegations are false and urged the media not to believe in rumors and speculations without verifying the authenticity of published reports. He expressed disappointment that the claims mentioned in the article were not subjected to proper investigation and confirmation. Ganguly clarified that Mamata Banerjee never requested him to convey any message to Yusuf Pathan regarding his resignation from his parliamentary position or any related matters. He further emphasized that he has not been involved in political affairs at any level.
This report comes at a time when the TMC is facing one of its most serious crises, having won only 80 seats in the 2026 assembly elections. Over 60 legislators have defected from the party, electing expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee as the leader of the opposition in the state assembly. Many party leaders have openly expressed dissatisfaction with the party leadership and are planning to leave the party.
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