Minister quits cabinet in another jolt to Trinamool

RAJIB BANERJEE IS THE THIRD MINISTER TO HAVE RESIGNED FROM THE MAMATA BANERJEE CABINET

In a fresh jolt to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) dispensation, West Bengal forest minister Rajib Banerjee on Friday stepped down from his post amid speculation that he may soon quit the ruling party to join the BJP ahead of the crucial assembly elections due in April-may.

Meanwhile, in a strong message to rebel leaders, the TMC expelled Vaishali Dalmiya, MLA from Bally in Howrah district, from the party amid speculations that she, along with Banerjee, may soon join the BJP.

Banerjee, the MLA from Domjur who has been airing his grievances

KOLKATA:

against a section of leaders of the ruling party over the past few months, is the second minister from Howrah district and third in the state to have resigned from the Mamata Banerjee cabinet.

“For the past one-and-a-half months, I was extremely hurt by the behaviour of some of my party colleagues. I never made any personal attack. I feel extremely hurt today. I had no option but to resign. I offer my apology if I have hurt anyone,” a choked Banerjee told reporters in Kolkata.

The TMC leader has submitted his resignation letter to the CM.

Avoiding questions on his next move, he said: “I will continue to serve the people from whatever platform I get.”

The TMC leader’s former colleague and BJP’S MP from Barrackpore Arjun Singh said that Banerjee was welcomed to join the saffron party. However, TMC MP and party spokesperson Saugata Roy said the party will not be affected by the resignation. “This will not make any difference to the TMC. If people like these leave, our party will get more consolidated,” he said.