When Mamata Banerjee made Dinesh Trivedi quit over a rail fare hike

India Dec 22, 2025

Back in 2012, Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi tried to raise train fares for the first time in eight years, hoping to fund safety upgrades and improve the network.
But his own party boss, Mamata Banerjee, wasn't having it—she opposed the move and pushed for his removal.

Why should you care?

This episode shows how political pressure can override even well-intended reforms.
Trivedi said the hike was needed because of rising costs and safety concerns, but stepped down to keep party peace.
The drama also strained ties between TMC and its national coalition partner, highlighting how tough it can be to balance progress with politics.