West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has officially set the tone for the 2026 Assembly elections, emphasizing a collaborative approach within her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Banerjee confirmed that the Indian Political Action Committee (IPAC) would remain a key partner for the TMC, putting to rest speculations and internal criticisms regarding IPAC’s role.
Addressing concerns from within her party, Banerjee clarified, “This is not Prashant Kishor’s I-PAC. He is involved elsewhere and has even launched his own political party. The team working with us now is new. Everyone knows this. It’s crucial to cooperate with them. Unwarranted remarks about them need to stop because teamwork is essential.”
The TMC’s partnership with IPAC began in 2019 as a strategic move to counter the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) growing influence in the state. Under the guidance of Abhishek Banerjee, TMC roped in political strategist Prashant Kishor and his IPAC team, a decision that paid off when the party clinched a decisive victory in the 2021 Assembly elections.
After Kishor stepped away, Pratik Jain assumed leadership at IPAC, continuing to collaborate closely with Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee. The partnership extended beyond the 2021 elections, with IPAC supporting TMC in the 2023 Panchayat polls and subsequent by-elections. Notably, the collaboration with IPAC also helped TMC secure 29 seats in the last 2024 Lok Sabha election, showcasing the effectiveness of their strategic planning.
Despite the strategic gains, not everyone within the TMC welcomed IPAC’s involvement. Skeptics argued that the party could manage on its own, and allegations of manipulation by IPAC workers surfaced. A notable instance occurred when TMC MLA Madan Mitra accused the organization of fostering corruption by promoting certain names for financial gain. Though Mitra later retracted his statement and issued an apology, the controversy highlighted internal tensions. Similar allegations were echoed by TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee, who also criticized IPAC’s methods.
In a firm response, Mamata Banerjee made it clear on Thursday that criticism against IPAC would not be tolerated. She stressed the need for unity, reinforcing IPAC’s role in the TMC’s 2026 election campaign as per their existing contract.
Banerjee’s call for solidarity aligns with TMC’s ambitious goal of securing a two-thirds majority in the upcoming elections, a target set by Abhishek Banerjee. Rallying her party, she said, “Abhishek was right. We are aiming for a two-thirds majority, but more seats must be secured. This time, the BJP should not only lose but lose their deposits too!”
Sources within IPAC indicated that their relationship with both Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee remains robust. They believe that resistance from certain TMC leaders stems from discomfort with IPAC’s transparent approach and candid feedback. As the 2026 elections approach, the TMC, bolstered by IPAC’s strategic insights, is gearing up for a high-stakes battle to retain its stronghold in West Bengal.
