TMC's Ghosh Denies Conflict Between Mamata and Abhishek, Emphasizes Role of Both Leaders

Senior TMC leader Kunal Ghosh denied reports of conflict between party chief Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek on Friday, igniting a new discussion about the proper balance between the party's young Turks and old guards. Ghosh also emphasized the crucial role both leaders play in the party's progress.

Ghosh, who is well-known for being close to the party's national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, made these comments just one day after the party chief argued for treating older members with respect.

The old and the modern are not at odds with one another. It is not a contest between Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee; rather, they are a team. Both are necessary for the party. However, I believe that Abhishek Banerjee is essential to the success of any big TMC program. Ghosh told a news outlet, "His picture ought to have been present at the program yesterday.

Ghosh made reference to Abhishek's absence from the TMC's convention on Thursday at Netaji Indoor Stadium because he needed an eye exam. There was no image of Abhishek on the big stage, but there was a massive cutout of Mamata Banerjee.

"What our party's leader stated yesterday is true—elders need to be treated with appropriate dignity. However, this does not imply that seniors will hold their positions and that juniors will put in years of hard work. When they hang up their boots to make room for the juniors, that is a decision that belongs to the seniors, Ghosh said.

Ghosh's remarks brought back memories of a two-year-long internal conflict between the TMC's younger faction and the old guard.

TMC chief Mamata Banerjee dissolved all national office bearer committees amid rumors of a power struggle, including the national general secretary position held by her nephew Abhishek Banerjee.

A new committee was subsequently established, and Abhishek was given his position as national general secretary of the party back.

Subsequently, Abhishek has not only become more well-known inside the party but is regarded as the de facto number two in the state's ruling hierarchy.

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