Seeking to regain organisational ground after the recent electoral setback, Mamata Banerjee on Friday convened a crucial meeting at Kalighat with defeated candidates and district-level leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), signalling the beginning of a major restructuring exercise within the party.
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The meeting, however, was not without controversy, as discontent reportedly brewed among sections of grassroots workers over who was invited and who was left out. Despite these internal frictions, Banerjee struck a firm and uncompromising tone, making it clear that loyalty to the party would be paramount in the days ahead.
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โThose who wish to leave are free to do so. I will not stop anyone. Those who remain are the ones who are truly committed, and I will rebuild the party with them,โ she said, in remarks aimed at boosting morale while also sending a strong message to dissenters. Taking a swipe at defectors, she added that many were โchanging colours under pressureโ and could leave if they wished.
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As part of the reorganisation drive, Banerjee directed leaders to revive dormant or damaged party offices across districts. She urged workers to repair and repaint offices, even remarking that she would personally take part in such efforts if required.
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The TMC supremo also instructed district leaders to submit detailed reports on organisational conditions within their respective areas within seven days. These reports are expected to outline local challenges, reasons behind electoral setbacks, and the current status of party units.
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In a bid to rebuild grassroots momentum, Banerjee called for the immediate resumption of small-scale meetings and processions at the block, town, and panchayat levels.
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Addressing concerns over post-poll violence, she directed leaders to compile a list of party workers who are unable to return to their homes. Emphasising legal support for affected individuals, she announced that senior leader Chandrima Bhattacharya would oversee the partyโs legal assistance efforts, ensuring coordination on all related matters.
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During the meeting, Banerjee reportedly engaged closely with district leaders, seeking detailed feedback on organisational conditions and carefully analysing the factors that contributed to the partyโs electoral performance.
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Political observers view the developments as part of a broader โweeding-outโ and restructuring strategy within the TMC, where emphasis is being placed on loyalty and accountability. The message from the leadership appears clear: those who stand by the party in challenging times will shape its future, while others may find themselves.