TMC Leader Kunal Ghosh Demands Probe into Sudip Bandyopadhyays Bank Accounts

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh has demanded a central agency investigation into the bank accounts of senior party MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay in connection with the coal scam. Ghosh has accused Bandyopadhyay of being more of a BJP leader than a TMC MP and has threatened to move court if the agencies avoid his demand.

In a series of allegations, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh has intensified his criticism of senior party MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay, calling for a central agency investigation into Bandyopadhyay's bank account in connection with the coal scam.

Ghosh's Accusations

Ghosh, who previously announced his resignation from the posts of TMC spokesperson and state general secretary, accused a faction of "old guards" within the party, including Bandyopadhyay, of exhibiting closer ties to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) than to the TMC.

Taking to social media platform X on Saturday, Ghosh tagged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), demanding an investigation into Bandyopadhyay's bank accounts and payments made on his behalf to a private hospital.

Ghosh threatened to seek legal recourse if the agencies fail to address his demands, asserting that Bandyopadhyay's alleged softness towards the BJP stems from corruption cases being investigated by the BJP.

Bandyopadhyay's Absence and TMC's Response

Despite attempts to reach out for comment, Bandyopadhyay remained unavailable. In a press conference, Ghosh further alleged that Bandyopadhyay neglects his constituency throughout the year, only emerging when the Lok Sabha polls approach. He emphasized that the TMC has numerous capable candidates who maintain consistent engagement with the people.

Senior TMC leader and Bengal minister Firhad Hakim declined to comment on Ghosh's allegations, while the party's deputy chief whip in the assembly, Tapas Roy, acknowledged the seriousness of the charges and called for an internal party investigation.

Ghosh's Continued Support for TMC

Despite his criticisms, Ghosh reaffirmed his commitment to the TMC, participating in a party rally in support of a mega rally scheduled in Kolkata on March 10. Ghosh, considered close to TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, had previously advocated for the older generation of party leaders to recognize when it is time to step aside for the next generation.

In response to these internal conflicts, Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee issued a stern warning, instructing party leaders to refrain from publicly discussing differences and emphasizing that any violation could result in disciplinary action.

Kunal Ghosh's persistent attacks on Sudip Bandyopadhyay have created internal turmoil within the TMC, prompting calls for investigations and highlighting the need for unity and discipline within the party.