Kolkata: Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday held a virtual meeting with district leaders and party workers across West Bengal, in what is seen as a significant organisational push ahead of the upcoming elections. Representatives and office-bearers from several districts attended the session, during which Banerjee clearly laid out the responsibilities, expectations, and conduct guidelines for party members.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also been holding back-to-back meetings with district leaders, reviewing developments ranging from the launch of Humayun Kabir’s new political outfit to the ongoing SIR campaign. Both leaders are said to be working in strong coordination, drawing comparisons to the campaign strategy once executed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Though there were reports of differing opinions between Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee following the RG Kar incident, the party appears united in its electoral strategy. Ahead of the polls, an understanding has reportedly been reached wherein Abhishek Banerjee will focus primarily on strengthening the party’s organisational structure. As part of this campaign machinery, he is expected to hold a massive virtual meeting on December 28 with nearly 1.2 lakh participants, including BLA-2s and other key party functionaries.
During Thursday’s meeting, discussions revolved around the SIR exercise, voter harassment issues, and complaints raised by BLOs. A fast-response strategy has reportedly been prepared to address these concerns. Mamata Banerjee has already conducted seminars with BLA representatives to streamline coordination.
The leadership has urged party workers to maintain calm and prevent any form of social unrest. Senior TMC leader Subrata Bakshi also addressed the cadre, reinforcing organisational discipline. Speaking at the meet, Abhishek Banerjee declared,
“We are the only ruling party in the country that has released, and will continue to release, our report card and details of completed work.”
Singer Iman Chakraborty also participated in the programme, presenting a musical tribute highlighting Mamata Banerjee’s welfare initiatives. Abhishek Banerjee reminded workers that they represent the Chief Minister while interacting with people.
“When you meet people, you are going as Didi’s representative. Be humble. Let people see her struggle reflected in your conduct,” he said.
While Mamata Banerjee has announced the “Unnoyoner Panchali” initiative showcasing developmental progress, the state government has criticised the Centre for allegedly withholding dues. The TMC leadership has decided to appoint district coordinators who will serve as strategic observers and troubleshooters. The list of coordinators is expected to be released soon.
Political observers compare the evolving TMC organisational framework to the days when Alimuddin Street was the nerve centre of the CPI(M) during Jyoti Basu’s tenure. Then, all campaign strategies and administrative coordination originated from the party headquarters. Today, Trinamool Congress, after 15 years of governance, is attempting to reinforce a similar, structured organisational command.
Abhishek Banerjee is increasingly emerging as the party’s key organisational strategist, operating from Camac Street, while jointly planning strategies with Mamata Banerjee during their regular Sunday meetings. Together, the duo is working on district-wise solutions and future political planning.