The Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, has reiterated its commitment to focusing on the pressing issues that affect everyday citizens during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament. Unlike its opposition counterparts, the TMC has deliberately chosen not to center its agenda solely on the Adani case, instead prioritizing concerns such as the deprivation of central funds to West Bengal, unemployment, inflation, and the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
TMC’s Strategic Stance: A Different Approach to Opposition Politics
Deputy Leader of TMC in Lok Sabha, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, stated on Wednesday that while the party aims to hold the government accountable, it does not support disruptions in parliamentary proceedings over a single issue.
TMC wants Parliament to run. We don’t want one issue to disrupt proceedings. Accountability must be sought for the government’s multiple failures, Dastidar emphasized, underscoring the party’s people-first philosophy.
While the Congress has aggressively pushed for a probe into allegations of fraud and bribery against the Adani Group in the U.S., TMC has opted for a broader focus on governance and policy lapses.
Key Issues on TMC’s Agenda
During its working committee meeting earlier this week, TMC finalized a list of issues to be raised in Parliament, reflecting its resolve to prioritize public welfare:
- Deprivation of Central Funds: The alleged withholding of MGNREGA and other central funds for West Bengal remains at the forefront.
- Inflation and Unemployment: Addressing the economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
- Fertilizer Shortages: Highlighting the impact of agricultural supply chain issues on farmers.
- Manipur Violence and Northeast Crisis: Bringing attention to the unrest in the region and its implications.
- Pending Aparajita Bill: Advocating for the clearance of the West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment Bill, which seeks stringent punishment for rape convicts.
The Aparajita Bill, unanimously passed by the West Bengal Assembly, proposes capital punishment for rape resulting in the victim’s death or a vegetative state, along with life imprisonment without parole for other perpetrators. The TMC has sought an audience with President Droupadi Murmu to discuss its pending approval.
Maintaining Independence Within the INDIA Bloc
Although the TMC is part of the INDIA opposition bloc, it continues to maintain an independent strategic outlook. Dastidar noted that while the party aligns with the bloc on broader objectives, its electoral strategy and parliamentary focus remain distinct.
TMC wins on its own and doesn’t rely on alliances to challenge the BJP, she said, affirming the party’s self-reliance.
This independence was evident when the TMC chose to skip two key opposition meetings this week—one on Monday to discuss the Adani JPC demand and another on Wednesday to strategize for the session.
A Focus on Governance and People’s Welfare
By shifting its attention to issues like the Aparajita Bill and the economic challenges faced by citizens, TMC underscores its intention to prioritize governance over political theatrics. The party also pointed out that the Northeast’s plight and delayed central funds require immediate attention, far outweighing the political buzz around the Adani case.
As Parliament reconvenes, the TMC’s stance stands out as a commitment to accountability and actionable governance. While opposition politics continues to evolve, TMC’s strategy reflects a focus on tangible outcomes for citizens, staying true to its slogan of Maa, Mati, Manush (Mother, Land, People).
