Returning to the streets in a style that once defined her politics, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the BJP during a protest in central Kolkata, vowing to “fight or die” against what she described as intimidation and political vendetta. The 71-year-old leader accused the BJP of targeting senior Trinamool leaders, including her nephew and MP Abhishek Banerjee, while also attempting to weaken the party after its recent electoral defeat.
However, the protest highlighted growing troubles within the Trinamool. Of the party’s 80 MLAs, only nine attended the dharna, along with six MPs. The low turnout came amid reports of internal dissatisfaction and speculation about divisions within the party ranks.
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Mamata alleged that the BJP was using police pressure and threats to lure away Trinamool legislators and councillors. Referring to attacks on Abhishek Banerjee and MP Kalyan Banerjee, she claimed the incidents reflected a dangerous political atmosphere in the state.
The protest also followed a series of setbacks for the party, including the absence of many MLAs from a recent meeting chaired by Mamata and the exit of several councillors. Mamata further accused the administration of obstructing political activities by denying permissions for protest arrangements.
Despite the challenges, she signalled that the agitation would continue and promised to resist attempts to dismantle her party.
