TMC Expels 8 Leaders Including Firhad Hakim Amid Internal Power Struggle
The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expelled eight senior leaders, including former Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim and minister Aroop Biswas, following alleged anti-party activities. This action comes in response to a rival faction, led by MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, forming a parallel leadership structure and attempting to remove Mamata Banerjee as party chairperson. The expulsions signify an escalation of the internal power struggle within the TMC.
Key Highlights
- TMC expels eight senior leaders due to alleged anti-party activities.
- Firhad Hakim and Aroop Biswas are among the expelled prominent leaders.
- A rival TMC faction has formed a parallel leadership structure.
- The rebel faction claims to be the 'real' Trinamool Congress.
- Mamata Banerjee has cracked down on dissent within the party.
In a significant development within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the faction led by party supremo Mamata Banerjee has expelled eight senior leaders, including prominent figures like former Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and minister Aroop Biswas. The expulsions, announced on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, are a direct response to alleged "anti-party activities" and a deepening internal crisis that has seen a rival faction attempt to seize control of the party's leadership. The dissident group, led by MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, had previously announced the formation of a parallel leadership structure, effectively challenging Mamata Banerjee's authority. This rebel faction declared itself the 'real' Trinamool Congress and even attempted to remove Mamata Banerjee as the party's chairperson, appointing veteran MLA Arup Roy in her place. They also established a 30-member National Working Committee, with Firhad Hakim and Aroop Biswas named as vice-chairpersons within this parallel structure. The expulsion notices were issued by the Mamata Banerjee-led faction shortly after the rival group's actions, indicating a swift and decisive crackdown on dissent. Party sources indicated that the disciplinary action was taken even before the expelled leaders could formally respond to the show-cause notices they had received. The list of expelled leaders also includes Javed Ahmed Khan, Arup Roy, Rathin Ghosh, Biplab Mitra, Sabina Yasmin, and Snehasis Chakraborty. This internal turmoil marks one of the most serious challenges to Mamata Banerjee's leadership since the TMC's inception in 1998. The rival faction's move to create a parallel organizational structure and their claims of support from a significant number of MLAs and councillors highlight a deep schism within the party. They have also communicated their new leadership structure to the Election Commission of India, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing power struggle. The Mamata Banerjee camp, in response, has also taken steps to consolidate its position, including moving to replace Firhad Hakim as the Chief Whip of the TMC in the West Bengal Assembly, with MLA Madan Mitra being proposed for the role. The Speaker's office, however, cited the matter as sub-judice, indicating potential legal challenges. The political observers view these events as a significant escalation in the battle for control of the Trinamool Congress, particularly in the aftermath of the party's recent electoral setbacks. The rebel faction's strategy appears to be aimed at undermining Mamata Banerjee's authority and positioning themselves as the legitimate inheritors of the party's legacy. The ongoing disputes, including claims over the party's symbol and leadership, are expected to be adjudicated by the Election Commission. The situation underscores a critical period for the TMC as it navigates internal divisions and seeks to maintain its political relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the main leaders expelled from the Trinamool Congress?
The main leaders expelled from the Trinamool Congress were Firhad Hakim, former Kolkata Mayor, and Aroop Biswas, a minister. Six other leaders also faced expulsion.
What was the reason for the expulsion of these leaders?
The leaders were expelled for alleged 'anti-party activities' and in response to a rival faction forming a parallel leadership structure within the Trinamool Congress.
Who leads the rival faction within the Trinamool Congress?
The rival faction is led by MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, who has challenged Mamata Banerjee's leadership and attempted to establish a parallel organizational structure.
What is the significance of this internal conflict for the TMC?
This internal conflict represents one of the most significant leadership challenges the Trinamool Congress has faced since its formation, potentially impacting its organizational strength and political future.