TMC removes Arup Chakraborty as Spokesperson amid party reshuffle, denies link to Abhishek Banerjee

Arup Chakraborty, a long-time spokesperson for the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), has been removed from his position as part of a significant reshuffle in the party’s spokesperson list. Along with Chakraborty, other senior spokespersons, including Kohinoor and Sudeep Raha, have also been excluded from the updated roster. The reshuffle sees the introduction of new faces who are expected to take over the spokesperson roles within the party.

The reshuffle follows a period of strategic realignment within TMC. The changes in the party’s spokesperson team come amidst a broader organizational restructuring, which also includes shifts in leadership roles and responsibilities. The new spokespersons are likely to play an important role in representing the party, communicating its policies, and addressing issues on behalf of the party.

Chakraborty’s removal has sparked speculation about the reasons behind the decision, particularly given his past association with Abhishek Banerjee, the general secretary of TMC. However, Chakraborty has denied any connection between his removal and his ties to Abhishek Banerjee. In a statement, he clarified, “Abhishek Banerjee is our general, Mamata Di is our leader. My friendship with Abhishek has nothing to do with my removal.” He further emphasized that his removal was the result of a decision made by the party leadership.

Chakraborty addressed his removal in a Facebook post, updating his profile to reflect his new position as "former spokesperson." He explained that the party had made the decision to update the spokesperson list, and he expressed no dissatisfaction with the change. “The party must have made this decision after due consideration. We are loyal soldiers of the party, and it is our duty to accept the decision,” he wrote.

Reflecting on his tenure as spokesperson, Chakraborty mentioned his role during some of the party’s most challenging times, particularly after the arrest of senior TMC leader Partha Chatterjee in July 2021. He acknowledged the difficulties the party faced at that time, stating, "We stood by the party during its toughest times, performing to the best of our abilities." He also noted that the party had faced significant legal and political pressures during this period, and he had contributed to defending the party’s position.

Despite his removal, Chakraborty expressed no regret and conveyed his best wishes to the newly appointed spokespersons. "I have always tried my best, and I hope the new team will perform even better," he stated. The reshuffle is part of TMC’s ongoing adjustments as it prepares for future political challenges, and the effectiveness of the new spokespersons will be closely watched as the party continues to navigate its political landscape.