Joining BJP was mistake: Bengali actress Mittra after joining TMC
In a significant development ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Bengali actress Parno Mittra has joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC), marking a major shift in her political allegiance. This move comes six years after she entered the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a decision she now describes as a “mistake.” Mittra’s switch to the TMC is seen as a strategic move, given the impending elections, which are likely to be held in March-April 2026.
Mittra, known for her performances in Bengali cinema, had initially joined the BJP in 2019, amidst much fanfare. At the time, her decision was seen as a coup for the party, which was seeking to expand its foothold in West Bengal. However, in a surprising turn of events, Mittra has now expressed her disillusionment with the BJP, stating that joining the party was a mistake.
The actress’s change of heart is attributed to her growing unease with the BJP’s ideology and functioning. In a statement, Mittra said that she would now move forward under the guidance of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has been a dominant force in West Bengal politics for over a decade. Banerjee, known for her strong leadership and populist policies, has been instrumental in shaping the TMC’s success in the state.
Mittra’s decision to join the TMC is likely to be seen as a boost for the party, which has been facing challenges from the BJP in recent years. The TMC, which has been in power in West Bengal since 2011, has been working to consolidate its position ahead of the Assembly elections. The party has been focusing on strengthening its organizational structure, reaching out to marginalized communities, and highlighting its achievements in the state.
The West Bengal Assembly elections, scheduled to take place in 2026, are expected to be highly contested, with both the TMC and the BJP vying for power. The BJP, which has been making inroads in the state, is likely to pose a significant challenge to the TMC. However, with Mittra’s joining, the TMC has gained a high-profile supporter, who is likely to campaign for the party in the upcoming elections.
The actress’s switch is also being seen as a reflection of the BJP’s struggles in West Bengal. Despite its best efforts, the party has been unable to make significant gains in the state, where the TMC has maintained a strong grip on power. The BJP’s inability to win over key leaders and workers has been a major setback for the party, which has been seeking to expand its presence in the state.
In recent years, the BJP has been facing challenges in West Bengal, with several of its leaders and workers switching to the TMC. The party’s high-handed approach and lack of inclusiveness have been cited as reasons for the exodus. The BJP’s failure to provide a viable alternative to the TMC has also been a major factor in its struggles in the state.
Mittra’s joining the TMC is likely to be followed by other leaders and workers, who may be disillusioned with the BJP. The TMC, which has been working to strengthen its position in the state, is likely to benefit from the influx of new members. With the Assembly elections approaching, the TMC is leaving no stone unturned to ensure its victory.
In conclusion, Parno Mittra’s decision to join the TMC is a significant development in West Bengal politics. Her statement that joining the BJP was a “mistake” is a reflection of the party’s struggles in the state. The TMC, which has been working to consolidate its position, is likely to benefit from Mittra’s joining. As the Assembly elections approach, the TMC is poised to face a significant challenge from the BJP. However, with Mittra on board, the party is likely to gain a high-profile supporter, who will campaign for the TMC in the upcoming elections.