TMC Rift Widens as Rebel MLA Claims Support of 58 Legislators in Bengal Assembly

A fresh political storm has erupted within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) after expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee claimed the support of 58 legislators and formally approached the West Bengal Assembly Speaker, intensifying speculation about a possible split in the party.

The dramatic development unfolded on Wednesday when Banerjee arrived at the Assembly and submitted a letter allegedly carrying the signatures of 58 MLAs. Sources said the dissident group is seeking recognition as a separate bloc within the legislature and has challenged the authority of the existing party leadership.

Banerjee, who was recently expelled from the TMC on charges of anti-party activities, asserted that a significant section of the party’s legislators had lost confidence in the current leadership. The rebel camp has reportedly projected him as its choice for the post of Leader of the Opposition and claimed that it represents the “real Trinamool.”

Several lawmakers are said to be aligned with the dissident faction. Among the prominent names mentioned are Javed Ahmed Khan, Sandipan Saha, Shiuli Saha and Akhruzzaman. The group has proposed Javed Ahmed Khan, Sandipan Saha and Shiuli Saha for deputy leadership roles, while Akhruzzaman has been suggested for the position of chief whip.

The rebellion comes at a challenging time for the TMC, which has been grappling with internal dissatisfaction following recent political setbacks. Dissident leaders have accused the party leadership of ignoring concerns raised by legislators and departing from the organisation’s founding ideals.

The TMC leadership, however, has rejected the rebels’ claims and maintained that the party remains united under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Senior leaders described the move as an attempt to destabilise the organisation and insisted that the majority of MLAs continue to support the party leadership.

In response to the growing unrest, the TMC has undertaken a major organisational restructuring, dissolving several committees and frontal bodies. Political observers believe the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the rebellion gains momentum or remains a limited challenge to the party’s authority.