A senior party leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, acknowledged that Mondal’s removal follows the political fallout from his arrest, along with his daughter, by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to a high-profile investigation into alleged illegal activities. The media’s coverage of their vast assets has caused significant damage to the party’s image, according to the leader.
Mondal, who had been a prominent figure in the TMC, was released on bail in 2024 after serving a two-year sentence in connection with a cow smuggling case. His ousting is widely interpreted as signaling a new direction for the party as it seeks to distance itself from ongoing controversies.
Meanwhile, in Murshidabad, the leadership structure remains largely unchanged. Former minister Zakir Hossain will continue in his role as chairman of the Murshidabad-Jangipur unit. MP Khalilur Rahman will also retain his position as president despite some internal discontent that surfaced following last month’s violent protests against the Waqf Act.
In the Berhampur unit, changes were also observed. Kandi MLA Apurba Sarkar will remain as president. However, there has been a reshuffle in the chairman’s position, with Rejinagar MLA Rabiul Alam Chowdhury being replaced by Hariharpara MLA Niamat Sheikh.
The ongoing leadership changes and reorganization within the party reflect efforts to strengthen its organizational structure, especially in the wake of internal and external challenges. As the party adjusts to the shifting political landscape, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact its future strategies and electoral performance.