The Trinamool Congress leadership has barred party members from recommending private contractors and outsourcing agencies to the Bengal government and its bodies, aiming to curb corruption and repair its public image ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
In a significant move aimed at curbing corruption and protecting its public image ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, the top leadership of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has issued strict instructions to party members across all levels. The directive bars them from recommending private outsourcing agencies, contractors, and suppliers for appointments by the West Bengal government or any of its affiliated bodies.
According to party insiders, this directive is applicable not only to state government departments but also to municipal corporations, municipalities, panchayat bodies, state undertakings, and autonomous institutions. The move is seen as a response to growing complaints about favoritism and commissions linked to recommendations by local leaders.
A senior state cabinet minister, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development. “There have been multiple complaints in the past where competent agencies or contractors were overlooked in favor of those backed by local leaders. When these recommended parties failed to meet performance expectations, the blame shifted to the departments involved, and more importantly, tarnished the party’s public image,” he said.
The same minister further revealed that in certain cases, allegations had surfaced of party leaders accepting kickbacks from agencies they endorsed. This has prompted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to adopt a tough stance against such practices. “The leadership is clear that anyone found violating this new directive will face strong disciplinary action,” the minister warned.
Observers believe this internal crackdown comes at a crucial political juncture for the TMC. The party has been grappling with a series of corruption-related controversies, most notably irregularities in the recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff in state-run schools. With the Assembly elections looming next year, political analysts say the TMC is pushing for an image makeover to counter anticipated opposition attacks centered around corruption.
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“This step is part of a larger strategy to clean up the party’s image. As corruption is expected to be the core issue in the next election, the leadership seems to be taking preemptive measures to neutralize the narrative,” said a political analyst.
By addressing internal malpractices, the Trinamool Congress hopes to restore public confidence and consolidate its voter base. Whether this move translates into tangible political gains remains to be seen, but it marks a clear attempt to distance the party from past allegations of nepotism and corruption.
