Malda: In a significant departure from protocol, the widow of murdered Trinamool functionary Dulal ‘Babla' Sarkar was given special prominence at a govt function in Malda where CM Mamata Banerjee inaugurated various projects and handed over cheques and certificates on Tuesday.
Chaitali (50), a councillor of English Bazar municipality, stood next to the CM as they garlanded a photograph of Sarkar. Banerjee also handed her cheques and certificates to give to beneficiaries. Apart from the councillor, there were MPs, MLAs and govt representatives on the dais. Officials said Chaitali was seated among them under instructions from the "highest level".
The programme came a day after Banerjee met Chaitali at her Malda home and assured her that "the brain behind the murder, however a big shot he might be, will be caught".
On Tuesday, during her address, the CM referred to Sarkar as an "old ally" and said: "Mafia and criminals have no place in my party or society. The culprits will be punished." She repeatedly emphasised that "Chaitali would complete Babla's unfinished work."
Political observers are speculating on a possible elevation for the councillor after witnessing a conversation between Banerjee, Chaitali and English Bazar Municipality chairman Krishnendu Choudhury on stage. Sources suggest she may be inducted into the five-member councillor in charge committee, potentially overseeing the municipality's water supply department.
When approached for comment, Chaitali remained diplomatic, saying, "She is more our Didi than our CM. She has expressed her pain at Babla's murder."
Sarkar, a five-time councillor and district vice-president, was shot dead on Jan 2. Police arrested seven suspects, including TMC's Narendra Nath Tiwari, while two remain at large.
Party insiders said the CM's gesture appeared to send a political message as well as a personal assurance to the family, while potentially paving the way for a larger role for Chaitali.