Haldia MLA Tapsee Mandal Joins Trinamool Congress, Receives Key Government Role

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 13, 2025, Kolkata :  In a significant political shift ahead of the 26th assembly elections, Haldia MLA Tapsee Mandal has left the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC), citing her opposition to the BJP's alleged divisive policies. Her defection strengthens the ruling party’s position and has been followed by a key appointment as Chairperson of the State Women's Development Board, as announced through an official notification from Vikas Bhavan.

Mandal, who was previously aligned with BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, formally switched parties in the presence of senior TMC leader Arup Biswas. Holding the party flag, she declared her intent to work for the development of Haldia and emphasized that progress cannot be achieved through division but rather by collective efforts. Soon after joining the party, she visited Kalighat to meet Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who advised her to work diligently in her new role.

Political analysts suggest that Mandal's swift appointment to a prominent government position may be a strategic reward for her defection. Her move underscores the ongoing political realignments in West Bengal as parties prepare for the upcoming elections. The development marks another shift in the state’s dynamic political landscape, with TMC consolidating its influence while BJP faces internal challenges.