A tragic incident has come to light from the Birbhum district of West Bengal, where five-time Trinamool Congress MLA and former Deputy Speaker Ashish Banerjee was found dead hanging at his residence. His body was discovered in a room on the ground floor of his house in the Hattalapara area of Ward Number 5 in Rampurhat, which served as a party office. The sudden demise of the veteran leader, who had also served as a minister in the Mamata Banerjee cabinet, has sent shockwaves across political circles. Law enforcement authorities recovered a detailed suicide note from the site, in which he reflected on his student politics days, countered corruption charges, recalled his teaching career, and left a poignant advice for his family.
Detailed Clarification on Political Journey and Corruption Allegations
In the recovered final letter, Ashish Banerjee began by tracing his entry into public life through student politics. He specifically addressed allegations involving the Tarapith-Rampurhat Development Authority, explicitly maintaining that he had no connection to any form of corruption. Clarifying his role, he stated that he possessed no real executive or financial authorization within the authority. Apart from attending routine general meetings, he had neither sanctioned any development schemes nor signed any financial checks. Consequently, he affirmed that all corruption accusations directed against him were completely baseless and fabricated.
Lifelong Dedication to Teaching and Deep Connection with Students
Before stepping into full-time politics, Ashish Banerjee maintained an extended career in the field of education. Reflecting on his tenure as an educator at Rampurhat College, he highlighted his commitment to teaching and his affectionate bond with his students. In his note, the senior leader expressed, "I have taught all my life. I never missed a class. I even conducted special classes. I taught many students for free. I received immense love from them." He reiterated that throughout his long career as a teacher, he never accepted money or sought improper financial advantages, maintaining complete integrity both inside and outside the classroom.
Reflections on Political Career and Guidance for Family
Addressing his family members in the note, the former Deputy Speaker confessed that choosing to enter politics was a mistake in his life, writing that he became a victim of political rivalry and vendetta. He urged his family members to stay completely away from politics in the future. Emphasizing family harmony, he asked his brothers to maintain strong and affectionate bonds with one another, indicating the absence of any internal family disputes. Concluding his letter, he explicitly requested that no individual should be blamed or held responsible for his death.
Normal Atmosphere Before Incident and Crisis Helpline Information
Family members shared that the situation at home remained entirely routine on the evening preceding the incident. Ashish Banerjee engaged in lighthearted conversations and joked with family members as usual, had his dinner, and retired for the night. The tragedy was discovered the following morning inside the ground-floor party office room. For individuals dealing with severe emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, immediate support and guidance can be accessed through the helpline number 9152987821.
