Political Turbulence: Firhad Hakim Resigns as Kolkata Mayor Amid TMC Rebellion

In a dramatic development, Senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Firhad Hakim resigned from his position as Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) on Wednesday. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh indicated that Hakim sought party leader Mamata Banerjee's approval to step down, blaming the BJP-led state government for obstructing municipal affairs.

Kunal Ghosh revealed that Hakim desired 'a dignified exit' after deeming the Corporation 'defunct' due to state interventions. Although Banerjee had initially withheld approval, she granted Hakim's resignation request in a recent administrative meeting, acknowledging the ineffective functionality of the Corporation under current state policies.

Concurrently, the Trinamool Congress is navigating internal turmoil, as two expelled MLAs claimed the backing of a substantial portion of party legislators. Ritabrata Banerjee, wielding the support of 58 MLAs, announced their newfound status as the principal opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, with the Speaker affirming their position.

Ritabrata Banerjee expressed intentions for Mamata Banerjee to assume a chief advisory role, underscoring collective strength within the TMC's legislative faction in the assembly. The political landscape further intensified as Banerjee criticized General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, questioning his influence and alleging public disconnection.

Amid this upheaval, Ritabrata Banerjee emphasized a methodical approach, reinforcing their legislative claim recognized by the state's Speaker, marking a strategic advance in the TMC's dynamic political journey.

(With inputs from agencies.)