Taking a stance contrary to his party's views, Chiranjeet Chakraborty, a former actor who transitioned into politics and holds three terms as a Trinamool Congress legislator, subtly supported the decision of former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay to join the BJP after resigning from his judicial post earlier in the week.
Although his remarks may not sit well with his party leadership, Chiranjeet also hinted at his own intention to step away from politics.
In Chiranjeet's perspective, Gangopadhyay's choice to join the BJP was a personal decision.
"In my opinion, it might have enhanced Gangopadhay’s reputation if he had contested the Lok Sabha polls independently rather than aligning with the BJP. Some may share this sentiment. However, his decision to join the BJP is entirely his own, and there's no fault in that," Chiranjeet stated.
"Gangopadhyay adeptly utilized the media for crafting his image. This, combined with his reputation, prompted the BJP leadership to welcome him into the party. It has certainly bolstered his resolve to oppose the Trinamool, which was his underlying desire," Chiranjeet elaborated.
Contrary to his party's stance, Chiranjeet argued that Gangopadhya’s move to the BJP doesn't inherently reflect bias in his past judgements regarding the cash-for-school-job cases.
"The validity of his judgements cannot be judged in this manner. Such suspicions wouldn't hold up in court," the former actor-turned-politician asserted.
Furthermore, he indicated that his current term as a Trinamool legislator will likely mark the end of his political career.
"I've appealed to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee multiple times to release me from my duties, but she hasn't agreed. However, this time will be the final one. I don't see myself as the right individual for this political battle," Chiranjeet concluded.
Read also | Prominent Trinamool Figure Tapas Roy Shifts Allegiance to BJP Prior to LS Elections
Read also | Ex-Calcutta High Court Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay Joins BJP Ranks
