Political tensions in Delhi’s political circles have escalated further after rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar formally approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging repeated misconduct by Kalyan Banerjee, the Chief Whip of the Bengal’s erstwhile ruling party.
In her complaint to the Speaker, Kakoli accused Banerjee of making “disrespectful, objectionable, and misogynistic remarks” directed not only at her but also at other female Members of Parliament. She urged the Speaker to take strict action, including the possibility of expulsion from the Lok Sabha if deemed necessary.
According to sources, Kakoli emphasised that the issue was not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of behaviour. In her letter, she stated that such remarks undermine personal dignity and create an uncomfortable atmosphere in Parliament, discouraging women MPs from actively participating in discussions.
She further argued that Banerjee’s conduct falls short of the standards of decency, restraint, and responsibility expected from a Member of Parliament, and is detrimental to the dignity of the Lok Sabha and its functioning.
Banerjee, when approached for comment, refrained from elaborating on the allegations. “What is done is done. If the Speaker takes any action, we shall see then,” he said.
This is not the first time Kakoli has raised the issue. She had earlier written to Speaker Om Birla on May 28, making similar allegations and accusing Banerjee of harboring a misogynistic attitude. In response at the time, Banerjee had questioned her political stance and past conduct.
The controversy comes amid growing internal discord within the TMC. Kakoli, the Barasat MP, has reportedly been dissatisfied since recent organisational reshuffles in the party following the Assembly elections, including Banerjee’s return as Chief Whip.
Adding another layer to the unfolding political drama, Kakoli is among a group of twenty ‘rebel’ TMC MPs who recently joined a newly formed political outfit, the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), reportedly led under the aegis of Om Birla. The group has declared its intent to support the NDA government under the leadership of the Prime Minister.
The timing of the complaint has sparked speculation in political circles, with observers questioning whether the allegations are part of a larger realignment within the party.
As the situation develops, all eyes remain on the Speaker’s office for a possible response, which could have significant implications for both parliamentary conduct and the ongoing factional tensions within the TMC.
Also read: Abhishek Banerjee appears before ED in recruitment scam probe
Follow us
