Patna, August 8: Shatrughan Sinha, a prominent MP and member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has declared Mamata Banerjee as his sole leader. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, praising him as one of the best speakers in Parliament.
In an exclusive interview, Sinha commended Prashant Kishor’s substantial victory in the Bankipur Assembly by-election, highlighting the importance of leadership in challenging times.
When asked about the departure of several leaders from TMC, Sinha reflected on his own experiences, stating, “After losing the 2019 elections as a Congress candidate in Patna, no one reached out to me except Mamata Banerjee, who personally called me.” He emphasized the trust he feels towards her.
Sinha recounted how, following Babul Supriyo’s exit from the BJP, Mamata Banerjee announced his candidacy for the Asansol Lok Sabha by-election without prior discussion. “I had never even been to Asansol before, yet I went, filed my nomination, and won by a record margin,” he said, crediting Banerjee’s support for his success.
He noted that during his difficult election loss in Patna, Mamata was the only one who stood by him. “Today, as she faces challenges, many have deserted her. It’s easy to abandon ship when the waters get rough,” he remarked, referring to the recent electoral setbacks faced by TMC.
Sinha addressed the criticisms directed at Abhishek Banerjee from dissenting leaders, clarifying, “Abhishek is not my leader; Mamata Banerjee is. However, I recognize Abhishek as a capable individual and a strong leader.” He praised Abhishek for his articulate arguments in Parliament, likening him to Rahul Gandhi and Sanjay Singh.
He expressed surprise at the complaints against Abhishek surfacing after the Assembly elections, suggesting that these were reactions born from frustration over electoral losses. “Those who once revered him have turned against him,” he noted.
On Kishor’s victory in Bankipur, Sinha reiterated his belief in Kishor’s capabilities, stating, “He embodies the idea that if good people don’t enter politics, they will be ruled by bad ones.” He emphasized Kishor’s understanding of national and global issues.
Sinha also addressed the ongoing student protests in Jharkhand, affirming that their demands are legitimate and must be met. “The government has failed to prevent repeated question paper leaks and must take action,” he insisted.
Regarding expectations from the BJP government in West Bengal, Sinha expressed hope that Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari would work towards the state’s development, along with opposition leader Ritabrata Banerjee. He called for maintaining law and order, peace, and harmony in Bengal, particularly in Asansol, known for its communal respect.
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