TMC Faces Internal Exodus Amid Claims of Authoritarianism

The defection of Koel Mallick follows the high-profile exits of Sukhendu Shekhar Ray and Sushmita Dev, who previously crossed the aisle to join the Bharatiya Janata Party. Banerjee attributes these fractures to a systemic refusal to engage in democratic dialogue, arguing that the party’s internal environment has become increasingly hostile to dissent. He contends that this lack of internal communication is driving members toward the opposition.

Mamata Banerjee has responded to the growing instability by setting a deadline for any further dissenters. In a video address shared on X, the former Chief Minister challenged those considering their exit to finalize their departures before the July 21 Shaheed Diwas rally. While the event is intended to commemorate slain Youth Congress workers, her ultimatum frames the upcoming rally as a critical juncture for party loyalty and administrative control in the region.