“Serampore MP Kalyan Banerjee, known for controversy, faced backlash for mimicking Vice President Dhankhar and represents TMC in key cases.”
Kalyan Banerjee, a senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Member of Parliament (MP) from Serampore, West Bengal, has often been in the spotlight for controversial reasons. Known for his outspoken nature and occasional public outbursts, Banerjee has had a political journey marked by both significant contributions and controversies.
Early Life and Political Career
Born in 1958, Kalyan Banerjee began his career as a lawyer, practicing at the Calcutta High Court from 1981. His legal expertise soon brought him into the political limelight, especially when he started taking on high-profile cases. He joined TMC when it was founded by Mamata Banerjee in 1998. Over the years, he has remained a close associate of Mamata, one of the party’s oldest members, and an important figure in the TMC’s legal battles.
Banerjee entered politics officially in 2001, winning his first election from the Asansol Uttar Assembly constituency. Although he lost in 2006, he quickly transitioned to national politics and won his first Lok Sabha election in 2009 from Serampore. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, solidifying his position as a prominent TMC leader in Parliament.
Legal Contributions
Apart from his political career, Banerjee has been active in representing TMC in various legal cases. His role as a lawyer has been significant in handling cases that shaped the TMC’s political trajectory in West Bengal. Some of the notable cases include:
- The Rizwanur Rahman Case: A high-profile case involving the suspicious death of a young Muslim man, allegedly driven to suicide due to pressure from his influential Hindu in-laws.
- Nandigram and Singur Land Agitations: These cases were pivotal in TMC’s rise to power, as the land disputes became central issues against the then-ruling Left Front government.
- Chhota Angaria Massacre Case: The case involved the alleged killing of TMC activists, which further fueled political tensions in the state.
- Bhikari Paswan Custodial Death Case: A case dealing with the death of a man in police custody, which highlighted human rights issues.
Controversial Incidents
Kalyan Banerjee is not just known for his legal battles but also for his controversial public appearances and statements. He often makes headlines for reasons that do not always favorably reflect on him or the TMC.
- Mimicking Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar: In the past year, Banerjee faced criticism for imitating Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar during a public event. His actions were considered disrespectful, leading to backlash.
- Emotional Outburst at Kali Puja: He has also been seen sobbing while offering prayers at a Kali Puja, an incident that drew mixed reactions from the public.
- Recent Suspension from Parliamentary Committee: In October 2024, Banerjee was suspended for a day from the Joint Committee of Parliament on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The suspension came after a heated exchange with BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay, during which Banerjee smashed a glass bottle, injuring his thumb and index finger. The incident was yet another controversy adding to his political journey.
Current Role and Position
At 66, Banerjee continues to be a significant figure in West Bengal’s political landscape and within the TMC. He has represented the party in various crucial legal matters, contributing to its political strategies and helping it gain leverage in several conflicts. His experience as a lawyer has proven invaluable for TMC, especially during times of legal or political crisis.
Banerjee’s journey as a four-time MP from Serampore also reflects his stronghold in the region. His electoral success showcases the trust his constituents place in him, despite the controversies that occasionally surround his career.
Legacy and Public Perception
While Kalyan Banerjee is respected for his legal acumen and political loyalty to TMC, his career has often been marred by controversies that overshadow his contributions. His tendency to make controversial statements or gestures has made him a polarizing figure in politics. Nevertheless, his role in handling significant legal cases for TMC has helped shape the party’s legal and political strategies.
In summary, Kalyan Banerjee’s career as a TMC leader and lawyer has been a blend of impactful legal work and public controversies. His contributions to West Bengal’s politics, along with his headline-grabbing incidents, make him a noteworthy figure in the state’s political landscape.
