Firhad Hakim Resigns as Kolkata Mayor Amid Growing TMC Crisis and Leadership Exodus

In a major political setback for the Trinamool Congress (TMC), senior party leader Firhad Hakim resigned from his post as Mayor of Kolkata on Wednesday, deepening the crisis within the party following its recent electoral defeat in West Bengal.

Hakim's resignation comes amid growing unrest within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), where a series of resignations by councillors and civic leaders have raised concerns about the stability of the city's administration.

According to sources, Hakim submitted his resignation after discussions with TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee, who subsequently accepted his resignation letter.

The development marks another blow for the ruling civic administration, which remains under TMC control with approximately six months left before municipal elections are due. The resignation follows weeks of internal friction within the KMC, including reported disagreements between the Mayor's office and sections of the civic administration.

Prior to Hakim's departure, several members of the Mayor-in-Council had also stepped down, citing administrative paralysis, lack of direction, and communication breakdowns, particularly ahead of the crucial monsoon season.

The political turbulence comes in the aftermath of TMC's defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections and the subsequent rise of the BJP in the state. Political observers believe the latest developments could accelerate concerns about a wider exodus of party leaders and elected representatives from the Trinamool Congress.

As Kolkata prepares for the monsoon and an upcoming municipal election cycle, questions remain over the future leadership of the city's civic administration and the broader impact on West Bengal's political landscape.