Split in Greater Cooch Behar Organisation as Leaders Extend Support to TMC Ahead of Polls

MP, , April 16, 2026, Cooch Behar: A group of leaders of the Greater Cooch Behar People’s Association on Wednesday announced their support for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the upcoming Assembly elections, signalling a split within the organisation.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Cooch Behar Press Club.

Parimal Barman, publicity secretary of the organisation’s central committee, said the decision was based on the state government’s development initiatives for the Rajbongshi community.

“The present government has taken significant steps for the development of the Rajbongshi people and remains committed to their progress. Therefore, we have decided to support the Trinamool Congress,” he stated.

Parimal Barman also claimed that Banshi Badan Barman, who is associated with the organisation, is no longer a member after joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He alleged that the move was driven by “personal interests” despite the state government previously appointing him as chairman of the Rajbongshi Development Council.

According to Parimal Barman, a large section of the organisation, spanning from Malda to Cooch Behar, will campaign in favour of Trinamool Congress candidates in the elections. However, Banshi Badan Barman, the general secretary of the organisation, has publicly extended his support to the BJP and is actively campaigning for its candidates.

The BJP has fielded candidates linked to the Greater Cooch Behar movement in constituencies such as Natabari and Sitai, further intensifying the political contest in the region.

Reacting to the allegations, Banshi Badan Barman dismissed the claims and accused Parimal Barman of acting with political bias.

“This is a conspiracy by the Trinamool Congress. Parimal Barman is related to Mathabhanga’s Trinamool Congress candidate Sablu Barman, and these statements are politically motivated,” he said.

The developments highlight growing divisions within the organisation ahead of the high-stakes Assembly polls.