Mamata Banerjee is likely to visit Birbhum on Tuesday, the day of the possible return of her trusted lieutenant Anubrata Mondal to his Bolpur residence, after him being granted bail by a Delhi court in the "cattle-rustling" case.

The chief minister is supposed to hold an administrative meeting on floods in East Burdwan on Monday and then go to Birbhum on Tuesday.

Multiple sources within the ruling Trinamool Congress suggested her visit would, in all likelihood, reinstate Mondal as the party head of Birbhum.

Since Mondal’s arrest by the CBI in August 2022, Mamata chose not to replace him with a new district party president, reportedly telling her close circle that the position would remain vacant until his return. She has personally overseen the party's state of affairs in the district by forming a seven-member core committee following Mondal’s arrest.

"The chief minister's visit was confirmed only on Sunday, which is why it has taken on added significance, particularly with Keshto da's (as Anubrata is called by his followers) possible return," said a senior TMC leader in Birbhum.

“We expect Didi to meet with senior party leaders in Bolpur and announce Keshto da's reinstatement,” the leader added.

Mondal was granted bail by Delhi court on Friday. Some formalities remain before his release from Tihar Jail. An aide indicated Mondal was likely to be released on Monday evening and would return to Birbhum by Tuesday afternoon.

Mondal was initially arrested on August 11, 2022, by the CBI in connection with his alleged role in a cattle smuggling case. Later, in November of the same year, he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate, which had traced money trails linked to the same case. His daughter Sukanya, also arrested in the same case, was granted bail on September 10.

Party leaders, especially Mondal’s supporters, have begun planning a grand reception for him.

"We have put up welcome gates with large photographs of Keshto da. We believe Didi’s presence will enhance the celebration," said a TMC leader in Bolpur.

A TMC source, however, pointed out that political dynamics in Birbhum did shift significantly in Mondal’s absence. Several new leaders, including his longtime rival Sheikh Kajal, have gained prominence. Kajal was appointed head of the Birbhum zilla parishad last year.

“Many of Kesto da’s followers were sidelined during his absence. Top party leaders have split into two groups. Responsibilities have been divided among MLAs and local leaders based on their areas,” said a party leader in Calcutta. "Given the current political situation, the visit of the party supremo (Mamata) is crucial. A careful balancing act will be needed (in Birbhum) and it won’t be easy for Anubrata Mondal to regain the level of control he enjoyed before his arrest," the leader said.