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TMC Split Rumours Intensify: Over 50 MLAs May Challenge Mamata Banerjee's Leadership, Claims Expelled Leader

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Kolkata
  • Jun 02, 2026
  • 155

Speculation surrounding a possible split in the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has intensified after expelled party leader Riju Dutta claimed that more than 50 legislators are preparing to challenge the existing leadership structure headed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

According to Dutta, a large section of the party's MLAs may approach the Assembly Speaker seeking recognition as the "real" Trinamool Congress. The reported move could trigger one of the most significant political developments in West Bengal ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

Rebel TMC MLAs May Stake Claim to Party Identity

Dutta alleged that the rebel group plans to place three demands before the Speaker. These include recognition as the legitimate Trinamool Congress faction, appointment of Ritabrata Banerjee as Leader of the Opposition instead of Shobhandeb Chattopadhyay, and a claim over the party's election symbol based on their alleged numerical strength.

The Trinamool Congress currently has 80 MLAs in the West Bengal Assembly. Political observers note that any faction seeking formal recognition under anti-defection provisions would require the support of at least 54 legislators, equivalent to two-thirds of the Assembly strength.

Kolkata Meeting Fuels TMC Split Speculation

The political buzz gained momentum after expelled MLAs Sandipan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee reportedly held discussions with several TMC legislators at the MLA Hostel in Kolkata. Sources indicate that a number of influential lawmakers attended the meeting, sparking fresh debate about possible divisions within the ruling party.

BJP Rejects Possibility of Welcoming TMC Rebels

West Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya dismissed suggestions that rebel TMC legislators could join the BJP. He emphasized that the party's growth has been driven by grassroots workers and maintained that the BJP would not compromise its political identity by absorbing controversial leaders from rival parties.

TMC Leadership Dismisses Defection Fears

Senior TMC leaders have downplayed reports of a rebellion, insisting that the majority of legislators remain firmly behind Mamata Banerjee. Party leaders argue that the organization continues to be under the control of its established leadership and that rumours of a mass exodus are politically motivated.

Congress Predicts Tough Days Ahead for TMC

Congress leader Udit Raj said the Trinamool Congress is facing growing dissatisfaction within its ranks. He suggested that Mamata Banerjee should focus on strengthening opposition unity under the INDIA alliance while addressing concerns among party workers.

Three Possible Outcomes of a TMC Split

1. Mass Defection to BJP

One possible scenario involves two-thirds of TMC MLAs joining the BJP. However, BJP leaders have publicly ruled out such a move, making this option unlikely at present.

2. Formation of a Rival TMC Faction

A second possibility is the emergence of a rival faction claiming ownership of the Trinamool Congress. Such a dispute would likely be examined by the Election Commission, which would consider legislative support, organizational control, party constitution, and backing from elected representatives.

3. Creation of a New Political Party

Rebel legislators could also choose to form an entirely new political outfit. To avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law, at least two-thirds of the legislative party would need to support the move.

What Do Election Commission Rules and the Constitution Say?

Under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution and provisions introduced through the 91st Constitutional Amendment, legislators supported by at least two-thirds of their party's strength may avoid disqualification in the event of a split or merger.

When rival factions claim ownership of a political party, the Election Commission generally examines:

  • Control over the party organization

  • Support within the National and State Executive

  • Provisions of the party constitution

  • Backing from elected MPs and MLAs

Political experts point out that Assembly numbers alone may not determine control over a party's name and election symbol. Support from MPs, organizational leadership, and official office-bearers often plays a decisive role.

Why Were Two TMC MLAs Expelled?

The latest controversy began after Sandipan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee alleged that their signatures were used without consent on a resolution supporting Shobhandeb Chattopadhyay's appointment as Leader of the Opposition. Both legislators claim that their subsequent expulsion from the party was linked to those allegations.

As political uncertainty grows in West Bengal, all eyes are now on the Trinamool Congress leadership, rebel lawmakers, and the Assembly Speaker, whose decisions could significantly impact the state's political landscape in the coming months.