TMC Faces Major Shake-Up in Lok Sabha Leadership as Abhishek Banerjee Replaces Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Kalyan Banerjee Steps Down as Chief Whip
In a surprising move that signals internal tension and shifting power equations, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has announced a major leadership reshuffle in its Lok Sabha team. Abhishek Banerjee, the party’s national general secretary and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has taken over as the leader of TMC in the Lok Sabha.
The change comes with Sudip Bandyopadhyay being removed from the position he held for years. Adding to the drama, Kalyan Banerjee has stepped down from his role as Chief Whip, citing personal reasons, although political insiders hint at deeper dissatisfaction.
This shake-up has stirred speculation not just in Delhi’s political circles but also among party workers and voters in Bengal, raising questions about internal unity and future strategy.
A Sudden Change at the Top
The announcement was made on Tuesday during a TMC parliamentary party meeting in New Delhi. The decision to replace Sudip Bandyopadhyay, a senior and seasoned MP, with Abhishek Banerjee, a much younger leader, was unexpected even for many within the party.
Bandyopadhyay has long been seen as a calm and experienced voice in Parliament. His removal was reportedly not discussed with many party members beforehand, which has added to the feeling that the decision was abrupt and possibly driven by internal power consolidation.
Some party insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the move as “demoralizing” for the senior leadership that has stood by Mamata Banerjee for decades.
Kalyan Banerjee’s Exit Adds to the Turmoil
In another significant development, Kalyan Banerjee, MP from Sreerampur and one of TMC’s most vocal parliamentarians, has resigned from the post of Chief Whip. Although he claimed the decision was personal and that he would continue serving the party in other capacities, the timing and tone of his departure have raised eyebrows.
There have been growing reports of tension between Abhishek Banerjee and several senior MPs over the past year. Kalyan Banerjee’s resignation seems to reflect that divide. While not openly confrontational, his exit sends a message of dissent within the ranks.
Abhishek’s Growing Influence
With this new appointment, Abhishek Banerjee’s grip over the party machinery appears stronger than ever. Already leading the party’s youth wing and a key strategist in recent election campaigns, he now holds a formal position of power in Parliament.
This elevation may be part of a longer-term succession plan within the TMC, but it has not come without resistance. Several senior leaders are reportedly uncomfortable with what they see as a fast-tracked rise that overlooks the contributions of older and more experienced members.
However, Abhishek’s supporters argue that the party needs new energy and a sharper voice in the Lok Sabha — especially with national elections on the horizon.
A Divided Party Faces a Testing Time
These leadership changes come at a critical juncture. The TMC is gearing up to face a more aggressive BJP in Bengal and is trying to retain its influence at the national level. But with visible signs of division and dissatisfaction within the party, its path forward may not be smooth.
Longtime supporters worry that the internal shuffle could alienate veteran leaders and confuse the party’s message. “TMC has always been strong because of its discipline and unity,” said a party worker from Kolkata. “If that breaks, we may lose what we have built.”
What Lies Ahead?
Whether this shake-up strengthens TMC or deepens internal rifts will become clear in the months to come. For now, the change has exposed a leadership gap and unease within the party’s core. While Abhishek Banerjee’s rise reflects Mamata Banerjee’s trust in the next generation, it also places him directly in the spotlight — with both power and responsibility resting heavily on his shoulders.
TMC must now find a way to balance experience with youth, ambition with unity and dissent with direction — or risk losing ground in an increasingly competitive political landscape.
