Kunal Ghosh hints at Abhishek Banerjee as Bengal's future CM

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh stirred Bengal’s political scene by hinting that Abhishek Banerjee, the party's national general secretary and nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, could be West Bengal’s future chief minister. This statement has triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties, accusing the TMC of promoting “dynasty politics.”

On the eve of Abhishek's birthday, Ghosh posted a warm message on Facebook, lauding the young leader's contributions and even hinting at his potential to take over Mamata Banerjee's role in the future. “Abhishek Banerjee has already proven his leadership abilities at a young age,” Ghosh wrote, further describing Abhishek as an emerging star who blends passion with modern techniques.

Ghosh’s comments suggest a vision for West Bengal’s future under Abhishek’s leadership. “By the natural course of time, Abhishek will become West Bengal's chief minister, leading Trinamool Congress into a new era,” he added, praising Abhishek for embodying the values of Mamata while modernizing the TMC.

Opposition parties were quick to criticise. BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya argued, “TMC isn’t a party for the people; it’s a family business, preparing to pass down the CM’s position like an inheritance.” CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty also condemned the move, accusing the TMC of sidelining grassroots workers in favor of family politics.

TMC members, however, defended Ghosh’s remarks, insisting that Abhishek represents a “continuity of developmental politics rather than dynasty politics.” They argued that his fresh approach has modernized the TMC, combining Mamata’s grassroots ethos with new-age strategies to engage Bengal’s youth.

While TMC has not made any official statement on succession, Ghosh’s message has reignited the debate over the party’s future leadership, as the old guard and new generation within TMC navigate the party’s evolving dynamics.