Abhishek Banerjee's Ascension: A New Era for TMC

TMC has appointed Abhishek Banerjee, Mamata Banerjee's nephew, as the new parliamentary leader in Lok Sabha. This comes amidst internal discord and aims to revitalize the party's role ahead of upcoming elections. Abhishek is seen as a key figure in the party's future political strategy.

In a decisive organizational overhaul, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday announced the appointment of Abhishek Banerjee as the party's new parliamentary leader in the Lok Sabha. Abhishek, the national general secretary and an MP, will take over from the veteran Sudip Bandopadhyay, who has been unwell for a considerable period.

The decision emerged from a closed-door virtual meeting of TMC MPs from both parliamentary houses, presided over by Mamata Banerjee, the West Bengal Chief Minister and party leader, who participated virtually from Kolkata. Abhishek Banerjee, a three-time MP and widely recognized as the TMC's de facto No. 2, will now lead the party's parliamentary strategy amid growing opposition pressure on the BJP-led NDA government.

The reshuffle indicates a strategic move to assert control and address internal discord. Political analysts view Abhishek's elevation as part of the TMC's effort to groom him for a broader role in national politics, especially with the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections looming. The TMC, with 29 MPs, remains a pivotal force within the opposition alliance INDIA.

(With inputs from agencies.)