Will factional disputes be tolerated by Abhishek Banerjee?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek Banerjee holds a crucial meeting to address factional disputes.
- Emphasis on respecting senior leaders and maintaining unity.
- Preparation for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections is a priority.
- Party aims to prevent defections to the Opposition.
- Strict adherence to party guidelines is emphasized.
Kolkata, Aug 19 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee convened a meeting with the leadership of the party's Barasat organizational district on Tuesday to bolster the party's framework ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
Sources within the party indicate that Banerjee delivered a firm message regarding factional disputes during this meeting, urging district leaders to resolve their differences amicably.
The Trinamool general secretary also emphasized the significance of senior leaders, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the party's success.
He called upon the new party leadership to honor the senior members and instructed them to fortify the party's organizational structure by striking a balance between the old and the new.
Post-meeting, a party insider revealed, "There have been numerous reports of factional strife within the Barasat organizational district. Hence, Abhishek Banerjee has conveyed a significant message regarding such conflicts. He has made it clear that any form of factional dispute will not be tolerated."
This development is crucial as the Trinamool Congress is determined to unify its ranks and present a solid front against the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. An uptick in factional disputes preceding elections often leads to party members defecting to the Opposition, noted the insider.
In addition, Banerjee reached out to former state minister Jyotipriya Mallick to inquire about his health.
"The change in block leadership was also a topic of discussion during the meeting. He has made it clear that the party will ultimately decide on the selection of block presidents," added the source.
It was also addressed in the meeting that an individual cannot hold two positions within the party.
Historically, an upper age limit of 40 years was set for youth members of the Trinamool. Allegations arose that this guideline was often ignored. However, Abhishek Banerjee asserted that adherence to this guideline must be strictly observed.