Amid controversy over the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has decided to withdraw its spokespersons from TV debates. The party accuses ABP Ananda, Republic, and TV9 of promoting an "anti-Bengal" agenda.

In a statement posted on X, the TMC criticized these media outlets for what it described as agenda-driven propaganda. The party urged the people of West Bengal not to be misled by individuals posing as party supporters on these channels, asserting that such figures do not represent the official stance of the party. The statement emphasized the party's rejection of what it termed the "unholy Bangla Birodhi Nexus" and reaffirmed its commitment to truth over propaganda.

The decision follows a heated exchange between senior TMC leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar and BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul during a debate on ABP Ananda. Dastidar, who is the deputy leader of TMC in the Lok Sabha, made derogatory comments about Paul’s profession as a fashion designer, which Paul defended. Additionally, Dastidar’s remarks about medical students during the CPM era drew criticism, leading her to apologize for any offense caused.

The recent debates have seen intense exchanges as the TMC defends the Mamata Banerjee government against accusations of covering up the rape and murder case, while the BJP has alleged that the TMC is shielding criminals. The ongoing debates are marked by contentious interactions between the TMC and BJP, with both sides accusing each other of trying to destabilize the state.