Trinamool Congress leaders denied speculation of a merger with Congress, clarifying that recent meetings with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi focused only on the INDIA bloc coordination and the 2029 general election strategy.
The denial comes as rebellion deepens within the party. Two Rajya Sabha MPs, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy and Sushmita Dev, resigned, while Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar claimed nearly 20 Lok Sabha MPs are leaning toward the NDA. The revolt began in the West Bengal Assembly, where many MLAs backed expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee over the leadership’s nominee for opposition leader.
Rebel MPs have reportedly met BJP leaders, including Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, fuelling talk of a realignment. Analysts suggest the BJP’s engagement has emboldened the mutiny, with rebels seeking political cover and protection from investigations.
The crisis threatens to weaken one of the INDIA bloc’s largest members, complicating opposition unity ahead of the 2029 polls. Observers warn that a divided TMC could fragment votes in Bengal, potentially boosting the BJP’s parliamentary strength as the NDA eyes a two-thirds majority.
