Politics

Major setback for Mamata Banerjee; Firhad Hakim resigns as Kolkata Mayor amid growing TMC turmoil

By Samira Vishwas

Kolkata: Senior Trinamool Congress leader Firhad Hakim on Friday resigned as the Mayor of Kolkata, adding to the growing political uncertainty within the party.

Hakim, considered one of Mamata Banerjee’s closest aides and among the most influential minority faces of the Trinamool Congress, stepped down after the party chief reportedly accepted his resignation request.

According to party sources, Hakim had earlier expressed his desire to resign, citing difficulties in functioning after the BJP’s rise in West Bengal politics. However, he was initially persuaded to continue in the role. On Friday, after renewing his request, Mamata Banerjee agreed to let him step down.

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Political setback for TMC amid internal rebellion

Hakim’s resignation comes at a crucial time for the Trinamool Congress, which is facing one of its biggest internal crises in recent years. The party has been battling rebellion within its legislative ranks following reports that 58 MLAs extended support to expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee for the post of Leader of Opposition in the Assembly.

The latest development has intensified speculation about growing dissatisfaction within the party leadership and concerns over the future direction of the TMC after recent political setbacks.

Electoral performance and minority politics under spotlight

Political observers believe Hakim’s resignation may also be linked to the party’s weakening electoral performance in several civic wards. Reports suggest the BJP is currently leading in a majority of Kolkata municipal wards, putting additional pressure on the Trinamool Congress leadership.

Some analysts also point to increasing scrutiny over the party’s minority outreach politics. Firhad Hakim has long been seen as one of TMC’s key Muslim leaders and a major face of the party’s urban administration in Kolkata.

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Six-year tenure comes to an end

Hakim has served as Kolkata Mayor since 2018 and has handled multiple important ministerial responsibilities in the West Bengal government over the years. Under the TMC, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation has remained under the party’s control since 2010.

There is currently no official announcement regarding his successor. However, Hakim’s resignation is being viewed as another significant blow to Mamata Banerjee at a time when the Trinamool Congress is already struggling with rebellion, resignations and mounting political pressure ahead of future elections.

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