TMC Faces Setback as Minority Cell State Secretary Ajmal Siddiqui Resigns, Levels Serious Charges Against Abhishek Banerjee
Senior minority leader quits Trinamool Congress, alleging authoritarian functioning, internal suppression and growing disconnect with grassroots workers.
The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal has been hit by a fresh internal setback after Ajmal Siddiqui, the State Secretary of the party’s Minority Cell, announced his resignation from both his post and the party.
The development has sparked political discussions across the state, particularly among minority communities and party workers. While announcing his decision, Siddiqui made serious allegations against senior TMC leader and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee, accusing him of fostering an authoritarian culture within the party.
According to reports, Siddiqui took the decision shortly after returning from Hajj. Speaking to reporters, he said his resignation was driven by concerns over the party’s internal functioning and leadership style.
He claimed that after his return from the pilgrimage, he felt it was no longer possible for self respecting individuals to continue working within the party. He alleged that the organisation had become associated with controversies and scandals, and warned that more cases could emerge in the future.
Siddiqui further alleged that many party members were involved in questionable activities, leading to repeated controversies that have damaged the party’s image.
Criticising the party’s organisational structure, he said Trinamool Congress had become a platform where genuine public service was no longer possible. According to him, merit and hard work were being ignored while those who engaged in flattery were being rewarded with important positions.
Targeting Abhishek Banerjee directly, Siddiqui claimed that the party’s current internal challenges were the result of what he described as an authoritarian approach to leadership. He alleged that over the past decade, several loyal leaders and workers had faced harassment, false cases and undue pressure.
Political observers note that the resignation is significant because the minority community has traditionally been an important support base for the Trinamool Congress. Any visible dissatisfaction among minority leaders could raise concerns for the party ahead of future elections.
Analysts believe such developments may fuel perceptions among some grassroots workers that decision making within the party is concentrated among a limited group of leaders, potentially creating friction within its traditional support base.
When asked about his future political plans and speculation regarding a possible move to another party, including the BJP, Siddiqui did not make any commitment. He said his primary focus remains the development and progress of West Bengal.
He expressed a desire to work towards industrial growth, employment generation and economic opportunities for the people of the state.
The Trinamool Congress leadership has not yet issued an official response to Siddiqui’s resignation or the allegations made against Abhishek Banerjee.