Kolkata, June 10: Amid growing discontent within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), rebel MP Shatabdi Roy has raised serious questions about the party’s functioning. She accused the leadership of ignoring internal complaints, failing to review electoral losses, and allowing corruption and overconfidence to weaken the organization.
In an exclusive interview, Roy stated that the increasing number of leaders leaving or rebelling against the party cannot be attributed solely to personal ambitions. Instead, it indicates deeper issues within the organization.
She remarked, “So many people have left the party or are dissatisfied. This cannot be solely blamed on their personal shortcomings. When a significant number of individuals are upset, the party must also take responsibility. It should have taken care of its workers and leaders.”
Roy highlighted that one of the party’s major shortcomings is the lack of a review of the reasons behind electoral defeats. She said, “There has never been a serious discussion after losses about why we failed. Without analyzing the causes of defeat, mistakes cannot be rectified. Every organization reviews its failures; political parties should do the same.”
Expressing concern over corruption, she noted that the level of corruption within the party has alarmingly increased. “No one imagined that corruption would reach this level. The revelations now surfacing are shocking. The party must take serious action on these issues,” she added.
Roy questioned whether the party and government were unaware of the activities occurring at the grassroots level. If they were uninformed, it represents a significant failure. If they were aware but took no action, accountability must be questioned.
She identified key reasons for the party’s current situation, including corruption, overconfidence, the growing influence of the I-PAC, and neglect of veteran workers.
“There was a perception that people would vote for us regardless. Additionally, long-time workers and leaders associated with Mamata Banerjee were overlooked. Ignoring experienced political workers was also a grave mistake,” she said.
Roy criticized the heavy reliance on political advisors and data-driven strategies, stating that grassroots workers understand local conditions and sentiments better. Decisions regarding ticket distribution and political strategy should involve local leaders, not just external advisors.
Commenting on Mamata Banerjee’s role, Roy suggested that she should have maintained greater control over significant political decisions. Banerjee is one of the country’s most experienced and influential leaders and should not have delegated all responsibilities to Abhishek Banerjee. Likewise, Abhishek should not rely solely on advisors.
Reflecting on recent developments, she noted that in challenging times, even minor mistakes can lead to major controversies. Therefore, leadership needs to be more vigilant.
Regarding future political prospects, she stated that no final decisions have been made yet. Various groups are working at different levels, and discussions are ongoing.
During the conversation, Shatabdi Roy also praised some initiatives of the current BJP government. She said, “It is encouraging that work has begun on implementing electoral promises. Initiatives like free bus services and the Annapurna scheme have been launched. I hope the government continues to fulfill its promises and focuses on good governance.”
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