The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is facing one of the most serious internal challenges in its history, with a group of rebel Members of Parliament reportedly extending support to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
The latest development has added to the growing pressure on party chief and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is already dealing with a major split among TMC legislators following the party’s defeat in the recent West Bengal Assembly elections.
Kakoli Ghosh Leads Rebel MPs
Barasat MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has emerged as the face of the rebellion within the party’s parliamentary wing. According to statements from the rebel camp, nearly 20 TMC MPs have decided to support the NDA, citing development and governance concerns.
The group has reportedly informed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla about its decision and is seeking recognition as a separate bloc.
The move marks a significant setback for the TMC leadership, which has been attempting to maintain unity amid mounting political challenges.
Mamata Banerjee Responds to Crisis
In response to the growing rebellion, Mamata Banerjee has moved swiftly to reorganise the party’s parliamentary structure. The TMC chief appointed senior leader Kalyan Banerjee as the party’s chief whip in the Lok Sabha.
The party has also accused the rebel MPs of effectively aligning with the BJP and choosing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the Trinamool Congress.
Senior TMC leaders have criticised the defectors, describing their actions as a betrayal of the party’s ideology and supporters.
Rebellion Spreads Beyond Parliament
The crisis is not limited to Parliament. Last week, 58 TMC MLAs broke ranks and staked claim to become the principal opposition group in the West Bengal Assembly.
The rebel legislators have openly questioned the party’s functioning and criticised the influence of key leaders within the organisation.
The situation has also impacted the party’s urban leadership structure. Several senior leaders resigned from important civic positions, raising further questions about the future direction of the TMC.
Rebel MPs Meet BJP Leaders
Adding to the political drama, several rebel MPs reportedly attended meetings alongside West Bengal Chief Minister and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.
Among those present were MPs June Maliah and Deepak Adhikari, popularly known as Dev. Their participation has fuelled speculation that more leaders could formally shift towards the NDA camp in the coming weeks.
TMC Leaders Hit Back
TMC MP Kirti Azad criticised Kakoli Ghosh’s decision, arguing that the party leadership had repeatedly supported her political career despite multiple electoral setbacks.
Meanwhile, party leaders continue to insist that the Trinamool Congress remains united under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership and will overcome the current crisis.
What the Crisis Means for West Bengal Politics
Political observers believe the ongoing split could significantly reshape West Bengal’s political landscape. If the rebel MPs and MLAs continue to distance themselves from the TMC, the BJP-led NDA could strengthen its position both in Parliament and within the state.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as Mamata Banerjee attempts to prevent further defections and rebuild party unity.
With both legislative and parliamentary wings witnessing unrest, the TMC is facing a defining moment that could influence the future of West Bengal politics.
