Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar Reflects on 40-Year Bond with Mamata Banerjee: “I Was by Her Side All Night”

Kolkata: Senior Trinamool Congress leader and former four-time MP from Barasat, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, has once again spoken about her long political journey and deep association with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, recalling decades of shared struggles, movements, and personal experiences.

In a recent interview on ABP Ananda’s programme, she revisited her political beginnings in the 1970s and described a relationship with Mamata Banerjee that has lasted for more than four decades.

A Political Journey That Began in the 1970s

Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar said her association with Mamata Banerjee goes back nearly 42 years, long before the rise of the Trinamool Congress as a dominant political force in West Bengal.

She recalled participating in student politics and early political movements, where she first came into contact with Mamata Banerjee. According to her, their bond was formed during years of activism and grassroots struggles.

“I Was There in Every Movement,” Says Kakoli

Recounting her political journey, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar said she stood alongside Mamata Banerjee in several key movements in Bengal, including major protests like Singur and Nandigram.

She emphasised that her involvement was not limited to electoral politics but extended to ground-level activism, where she actively supported the movement despite facing challenges.

Emotional Recollection of Difficult Times

In her interview, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar also shared emotional memories from the past, recalling moments when Mamata Banerjee faced serious health challenges.

She claimed she remained by Mamata’s side during critical situations, even describing instances where medical assistance was difficult to arrange at the time. She said she stayed through the night, monitoring and assisting her during those difficult moments.

Her remarks were intended to highlight the depth of personal trust and long-standing association between the two leaders.

Response to Political Criticism

Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar also reacted to recent criticism and social media comments questioning her political loyalty.

She stated that those making allegations today were unaware of the long history she shares with Mamata Banerjee and the sacrifices made during early political struggles in West Bengal.

From Student Politics to National Stage

Over the years, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has grown from a student political activist to a senior parliamentarian representing Barasat multiple times in the Lok Sabha.

Her political career has been closely tied to the growth of the Trinamool Congress, especially during its rise to power in 2011.

Conclusion

Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar’s recent remarks highlight the long and complex relationships that often shape Indian politics. Her reflection on decades of association with Mamata Banerjee sheds light on the personal bonds and political journeys that continue to influence West Bengal’s political landscape.