Mamata Banerjee Stresses Party Discipline, Public Outreach, and 2026 Polls in Key Parliamentary Meeting

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 2, 2024, Kolkata : In a significant address to Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislators, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee underscored the importance of party discipline, enhanced public outreach, and strategic preparations for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections. The meeting, held at the state assembly, was aimed at galvanizing party representatives ahead of future electoral challenges and addressing internal concerns regarding conduct and communication.

Mamata, who has consistently emphasized the need for strong organizational coherence, urged her colleagues to adopt a more focused approach in their interactions with the public. "Public representatives must strengthen their relations with the people, ensuring that no one is left behind in the government's development initiatives," she remarked. The Chief Minister also issued clear directives to avoid controversial remarks that could tarnish the party's image.

Addressing concerns over public comments, Mamata told the MLAs: "Do not make any statements that may embarrass the party. We must project unity and discipline." She further encouraged the legislators to engage in grassroots work, instructing them to go door-to-door and greet constituents. "There’s no need for elaborate speeches; just simple engagement. Ask questions with understanding, and ministers should respond appropriately," she added.

In a notable move to tighten internal monitoring, Mamata delegated a new responsibility to TMC Minister Arup Biswas. Biswas will now oversee the activities of the party's MLAs, ensuring they stay on track with their duties. A new WhatsApp group will be set up to keep tabs on the MLAs' movements and activities, including when and where they are expected to be. The aim is to maintain a cohesive and disciplined approach as the party gears up for the 2026 elections.

"All MLAs must think about 2026," Mamata stated. "You need to stay connected with your areas. Narayan Goswami, stay close to your constituency, and Siddikulla Chowdhury, address the issues in the blocks. We need the new MLAs to spend at least seven days in their constituencies to learn the ropes," she instructed.

The Chief Minister also brought attention to the importance of handling sensitive issues within the party. She expressed concern over ministers and MLAs making controversial remarks, advising them to avoid unnecessary statements that could harm the government’s reputation. "We need to be cautious with the questions we ask and the issues we address. Ministers should be well-informed on all matters," she said.

Mamata also acknowledged concerns related to student and youth organizations at the district level. She indicated that these concerns would be addressed systematically in the coming weeks, and encouraged a more inclusive approach to engagement across the state. In a final note to party members, she called for unity, stating that if the opposition does not wish to engage, the TMC itself should take the lead and be proactive in its outreach, including sending representatives to Delhi as needed.

The meeting highlighted Mamata's strategic vision for the party’s unity, discipline, and electoral preparation, setting a clear tone for the road ahead as the TMC prepares for the crucial 2026 Assembly elections.