NEW DELHI: A rebel group within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has reportedly secured the backing of 19 Members of Parliament, achieving the two-thirds majority required to form a separate faction. This development signals a potential vertical split in the party, which has dominated West Bengal politics for nearly three decades.
Key Figures in the Rebellion
Among the MPs who have signed the rebel list are Yusuf Pathan, Sayoni Ghosh, and Mala Roy. The rebellion is led by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, who resigned from the party and has become the face of the parliamentary uprising. She claims that a large section of TMC MPs are prepared to part ways with party chief Mamata Banerjee.
Rebels' Intentions
The rebel MPs have clarified that they do not intend to formally join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Instead, they plan to support the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) from outside. Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar stated, "We will not join BJP. We will support NDA." A letter containing the signatures of the rebel MPs was reportedly submitted to the Lok Sabha Speaker's office, though no official acknowledgment has been made public.
Party's Internal Crisis
The TMC is facing what could become the biggest rupture in its 28-year history. This internal uprising comes just weeks after the party suffered a significant defeat in the West Bengal assembly elections. The rebellion threatens not only the party's influence in the state but could also provide the ruling NDA with an easier path in Parliament. Earlier, the party faced a similar rebellion by its MLAs. Expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee claimed that 58 TMC legislators have been recognized in the Assembly as an opposition group.
Response from Loyalists
TMC MP Mahua Moitra strongly condemned the rebel faction, calling them "traitors." She argued that even if the rebels secure two-thirds of the MPs, which she disputed, the only option would be to merge with the BJP along with two-thirds of the political party. Moitra referred to a Supreme Court verdict in the Subhash Desai vs Principal Secretary, Governor of Maharashtra case (2023), which she said settled the matter. In a post on X, she stated, "Even if traitors get 19 MPs (2/3), which they have not, the only option is to merge with BJP along with 2/3 of the political party. Bhupinder Yadav and the Lok Sabha Speaker cannot create a separate political party or faction."
Implications for Indian Politics
The rebellion in the TMC could have significant implications for the political landscape in India. If the rebel faction is recognized, it may weaken the opposition's strength in Parliament and bolster the NDA's position. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for a prolonged battle. The TMC leadership is expected to take disciplinary action against the rebel MPs, while the rebels are likely to seek legal and political validation for their faction.
