Politics Books

Mamata Banerjee - As I have known her

₹550

*Mamata Banerjee as I Have Known Her* by Dipak Kumar Ghosh provides an in-depth, personal, and political account of one of Indias most prominent and controversial political leadersMamata Banerjee. Written by Ghosh, a former bureaucrat and close associate of Banerjee, the book reveals a first-hand perspective of Mamata Banerjee's rise in politics, her unique personality, leadership style, and the trajectory of her political career.Mamata Banerjee, the leader of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) and the current Chief Minister of West Bengal, is a figure that has significantly shaped the political landscape in the state and across India. Known for her fierce spirit, grassroots connection, and relentless opposition to the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Banerjee's journey from a modest background to a formidable political force has fascinated both admirers and critics.Dipak Kumar Ghoshs book provides readers with a rare insight into Banerjee's life, character, and leadership. Having worked closely with her during crucial periods of her political life, Ghosh had access to the inner workings of the Trinamool Congress, and his observations offer a blend of admiration and criticism.Early Life and Political BeginningsThe book traces Banerjee's early years in politics, focusing on her humble beginnings. Born into a middle-class family in Kolkata, Banerjee was always known for her fiery and independent spirit. Her early education and student activism sowed the seeds of her political journey, where she quickly gained a reputation for her fearlessness. Ghosh recalls how, from the outset, Banerjee had a remarkable ability to connect with the common people, particularly the working class and rural populations of West Bengal.In the late 1970s, Banerjee entered the political scene as a member of the Indian National Congress (INC). Ghosh provides detailed anecdotes of her time within the party, highlighting how her straightforward and bold nature often put her at odds with senior leaders. Yet, her resilience and energy helped her rise through the ranks, eventually securing her a place in the Lok Sabha at a very young age.One of the most significant phases in Banerjees political career, as described in the book, was her relentless battle against the Left Front government in West Bengal, which had held power for over three decades. The Left, particularly the CPI(M), had established a strong political machinery in West Bengal, and challenging their dominance seemed like an impossible task. Yet, Banerjee emerged as a fierce opponent.Ghosh offers a detailed account of the political climate of West Bengal during this time. He writes about the CPMs stronghold over the rural and urban political apparatus and how Banerjees approach was different from her contemporaries. She positioned herself as the voice of the oppressed, often taking to the streets in protest and building her political identity as a leader who fought for the common people, particularly farmers and marginalized communities.Her aggressive political campaigns against land acquisition policies, most notably in Singur and Nandigram, are highlighted in the book as defining moments in her career. According to Ghosh, these campaigns not only brought Banerjee widespread attention but also showcased her ability to harness public sentiment and transform it into political capital. Through her charismatic leadership and strategic moves, she was able to weaken the Lefts stronghold and pave the way for the eventual downfall of the Left Front government in 2011.Mamata Banerjees decision to break away from the Congress Party and form the All India Trinamool Congress in 1998 was a turning point in her career, and Ghosh delves into the circumstances surrounding this decision. The book details the disillusionment Banerjee felt with the Congress leadership and her growing frustration with the partys inability to effectively challenge the Left in West Bengal.