Ms Banerjee is different. Perhaps it speaks to Bengal’s long-term marginalisation in national politics and business. So Bengal has a legitimate grievance that national politics has not so far favoured its leaders. Three years back, when the INDIA platform was formed, I took the view that Ms Banerjee ought to have been made its chairperson. In any case, it is a long time since we have had a woman prime minister.

Source: The Telegraph February 16, 2026 02:39 UTC