After the Trinamool Congress suffered one of its worst electoral defeats in recent years, party chief Mamata Banerjee held a crucial meeting with party candidates and leaders in Kolkata, asking them to rebuild the organisation from the ground level while making it clear that those unhappy with the party are free to leave.
The meeting took place at her Kalighat residence and was attended by senior party leaders, including Abhishek Banerjee. Addressing candidates who contested the recent West Bengal Assembly elections, Mamata reportedly said that the Trinamool Congress would “never bow down” despite the heavy setback in the polls.
According to party sources, Mamata Banerjee told leaders that those planning to switch parties should do so without hesitation. At the same time, she urged loyal workers to stay united and help restore damaged party offices allegedly vandalised during post-poll violence. She even said she was ready to personally help repaint and reopen party offices if necessary.
The remarks come amid growing signs of unrest within the party after the BJP’s massive victory in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. The BJP won 207 out of 294 seats, while the TMC managed to secure only 80 seats. Mamata herself lost from the Bhabanipur constituency, marking a major political setback for the veteran leader and her party after 15 years in power in the state.
Reports also suggest that several leaders and workers have become dissatisfied following the defeat, leading to speculation about possible defections. Mamata, however, appeared determined to project confidence and unity within the organisation. She reportedly asked candidates to submit area-wise reports and reconnect with grassroots workers to strengthen the party structure again.
The Trinamool Congress also repeated its allegation that the people’s mandate had been “looted”, while senior leaders accused the BJP and central agencies of electoral irregularities. Despite the defeat and internal tensions, Mamata Banerjee signalled that the party would continue its political fight and attempt a strong comeback in the coming years.
