Kalyan Bandopadhyay accuses TMC's Trinankur Bhattacharya of failing medical students, demands his removal

Tensions have surfaced within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) as MP Kalyan Bandopadhyay criticized Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) President Trinankur Bhattacharya for his alleged inaction during the RG Kar Medical College crisis. Speaking at a public event in Domjur, Kalyan accused Trinankur of failing to support suspended medical students who were reportedly threatened by left-wing and ultra-left groups. He alleged that Trinankur remained silent during the crisis, prompting Kalyan to demand his removal from the TMCP President's position.

Kalyan claimed that he, along with TMC leader Kunal Ghosh, actively supported the affected students by being present during critical moments. “I stood with the students when they needed support, but Trinankur did nothing,” he stated during his speech. Kalyan also accused certain factions within the party of creating an atmosphere of fear for the students, further worsening the situation.

Former TMCP Vice President Prantik Chakraborty and former TMCP leader Rajanya Haldar added to the discourse. Prantik highlighted that he had arranged legal support for the students when they faced institutional actions, including suspension. Prantik also mentioned a short film he created addressing the RG Kar incident, which was stopped by party orders to maintain discipline. “I complied with the party’s decision, but leaders like Kalyan Bandopadhyay also failed to act when students needed support,” Prantik said.

Rajanya Haldar defended Trinankur, stating that leaders criticizing him had not supported junior doctors during the crisis. She credited Prantik Chakraborty for taking significant steps to assist the students. “If anyone helped the students, it was Prantik. The rest have no right to question Trinankur now,” she said.

TMC MP Sougata Roy acknowledged hearing about the controversy but refrained from commenting on the details, citing his lack of organizational involvement. Party sources indicate growing discontent within the TMCP regarding leadership dynamics, with discussions ongoing about the organization’s direction and response to internal challenges.