Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed condolences following the death of Trinamool Congress leader and former Deputy Speaker Asish Banerjee. The five-time MLA from Rampurhat in Birbhum district was found hanging at a party office on Sunday. Several TMC figures, including MP Abhishek Banerjee, blamed the BJP and some media outlets for smear campaigns against the leader and others in the party. Mamata Banerjee stated that the veteran politician faced repeated false corruption accusations and intense pressure despite his close ties with constituents and record of development work in Rampurhat. She noted the mental strain he endured and highlighted his lifelong commitment to teaching and public service, adding that his absence would be deeply felt.
