Mamata Banerjee formally takes charge as TMC Bengal Chief amid growing party rift

Amid an ongoing internal crisis within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), party supremo Mamata Banerjee has officially taken over as the president of the party's West Bengal unit. The move comes after senior leader Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from all party posts just weeks after being appointed as the state president, following a series of defections and internal disagreements.

Addressing party workers, Banerjee strongly criticised the rebel faction and accused them of acting in the interest of the BJP. She challenged the dissident leaders to openly join the BJP instead of creating unrest within the party.

Stressing the need for unity, Banerjee said the TMC would continue to fight together despite recent political setbacks and attempts to weaken the organisation.

The leadership change comes at a crucial time for the TMC as it faces one of its biggest internal challenges in recent years. Several leaders have distanced themselves from the party, leading to a power struggle over the party's organisational structure. Banerjee's decision to personally lead the state unit is being viewed as an effort to strengthen the party and restore confidence among its workers.