Kolkata, May 20, 2026 – In a fiery display of defiance following her party’s decisive loss in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has boldly predicted the imminent fall of the BJP-led central government in Delhi. Addressing party MLAs at her Kalighat residence on May 19, Banerjee declared that the BJP would soon be ousted from power at the Centre, even as she vowed to continue her fight against the saffron party.
TMC, which had ruled West Bengal for 15 years, managed to secure only around 80 seats compared to BJP’s dominant 207, marking a major political shift in the state with Subhendu Adhikari of the BJP now at the helm.
Post-Poll Violence Allegations Spark Legal Battle
Banerjee did not stop at political rhetoric. In a dramatic move, she donned a lawyer’s black gown and appeared before the Calcutta High Court on May 14 to personally argue a petition concerning alleged post-poll violence against TMC workers, offices, and supporters. Citing incidents of attacks, vandalism, and demolitions targeting minorities and street vendors, she urged the court to intervene and ensure protection.
The former Chief Minister, who holds a law degree and renewed her bar council membership since 1995, told the bench it was her first time arguing a case herself at the High Court. She emphasized that “Bengal is not a bulldozer state,” criticizing the new government’s actions against hawkers and alleged targeting of vulnerable communities.
The Calcutta High Court responded by directing the new BJP government to strictly maintain law and order, ensure the safe return of those who fled their homes, and file a response to the petition.
TMC Plans Massive Protests
Banerjee announced large-scale public protests starting May 21 in key Kolkata areas like Ballygunge, Howrah Junction, and Sealdah railway stations to oppose what she called “dictatorship” and “bulldozer culture.” She accused the new administration of selectively targeting the poor and minorities under the pretext of curbing post-election violence.
Her nephew and TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee also launched a sharp attack on Chief Minister Subhendu Adhikari, referencing past controversies and asserting that TMC would not bow down despite notices or demolitions.
Political Ripple Effects
Banerjee’s aggressive stance comes as TMC looks to regroup and build momentum against the BJP ahead of future national battles. Her claims of the central government’s impending downfall have ignited fresh debates on opposition unity and the shifting sands of Indian politics.
As Bengal navigates this new political era, all eyes remain on whether Mamata Banerjee’s bold predictions and legal activism can translate into a broader national resurgence for the opposition.