Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly on Saturday issued a categorical denial over media reports claiming he acted as an intermediary in a political conversation involving Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee and cricketer-turned-politician Yusuf Pathan. The clarification comes amid heightened political speculation in West Bengal, where the ruling party is facing internal unrest.

In a signed statement addressed to media organisations, Ganguly rejected reports suggesting he had been asked to approach Yusuf Pathan to persuade him to vacate his Lok Sabha seat. He described the claims as inaccurate and said he had not been involved in any such communication or political mediation at any stage.

Ganguly further stated that he had never been requested by Mamata Banerjee, nor had he contacted Yusuf Pathan regarding any political matter. He emphasised that reports attributing such actions to him were “in reckless disregard of the truth” and urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing speculative claims. He also reiterated that he has consistently stayed away from direct political involvement.

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The clarification comes amid broader political turbulence within the All India Trinamool Congress, which has been witnessing internal dissent and organisational strain following recent electoral setbacks. The party’s leadership structure has come under scrutiny as discussions continue over strategy and future political positioning in West Bengal.

The controversy also emerged at a time when speculation is growing over potential political realignments and possible by-election scenarios, particularly involving prominent constituencies. However, neither Yusuf Pathan nor Trinamool Congress leadership has officially responded to the specific claims involving Ganguly, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the report.

Meanwhile, the political environment in the state remains tense, with reports of internal disagreements within the party surfacing in recent weeks. Observers note that the situation reflects a broader phase of instability for the ruling party, as it attempts to manage leadership questions, organisational restructuring, and public perception challenges simultaneously.

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