The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is confronting a widening internal crisis following reports of mass resignations by municipal councillors across several districts of West Bengal, with more than 100 elected representatives stepping down or withdrawing from active duties. According to PTI reports, councillors in multiple municipalities have resigned in groups, while several others have reportedly stopped attending office. The developments come in the aftermath of TMC’s defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections, intensifying concerns over organisational stability at the grassroots level.
Party chief Mamata Banerjee has called for unity within the organisation amid the growing unrest. At a recent internal meeting, she reportedly urged party workers to remain united during challenging times, while also stating that those unwilling to continue in the organisation were free to take their own decisions. The resignations have triggered political backlash from opposition parties. State minister Agnimitra Paul criticised the situation, alleging that the absence of elected councillors is affecting municipal governance and disrupting essential civic services across various regions of the state. The BJP leader also described the councillors’ actions as irresponsible and accused them of neglecting public duties.
Several municipalities have reported significant numbers of resignations. In Halisahar under North 24 Parganas, 16 out of 23 councillors reportedly resigned. In Bhatpara, 30 out of 35 councillors stepped down, including the municipal chairperson. Other affected bodies include Kanchrapara Municipality, where 14 councillors resigned, Garulia Municipality with 18 resignations, and North Barrackpore Municipality with 15. In Diamond Harbour, eight councillors resigned from a 16-member civic body, while Contai Municipality also reported 14 resignations. The scale of the exits has raised speculation that administrative panels may be appointed to replace elected municipal boards in some areas.
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According to PTI, several councillors cited limited administrative authority as a key reason for stepping down, pointing to constraints in their ability to function effectively within local governance structures. The situation has added to political uncertainty within the TMC at a time when the party is seeking to consolidate its position following electoral setbacks. As the developments unfold, both the party leadership and opposition leaders are closely watching whether the resignations signal a temporary protest within municipal ranks or a deeper structural shift in West Bengal’s local political landscape.
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