The internal conflict within the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has intensified, with the party's rival factions now taking their battle to the Election Commission of India (ECI). The faction led by Mamata Banerjee has formally submitted a revised National Executive Committee to the poll body, seeking to reinforce its claim over the party's organisational structure. The move comes amid a growing challenge from a rebel group headed by Rittabrata Banerjee, which is also preparing to stake its claim over the party's leadership, name, and election symbol. The latest developments mark a significant escalation in the power struggle that emerged following the party's disappointing performance in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Political observers believe the dispute could become one of the most closely watched organisational battles in recent years, with implications extending beyond state politics.

The revised organisational list submitted by the Mamata Banerjee camp names her as the party chairperson and Abhishek Banerjee as national general secretary. The list also includes senior leaders such as Chandrima Bhattacharya, Derek O'Brien, Dola Sen and Subhasish Chakraborty in key organisational positions.

According to party sources, the revised committee was finalised and sent to the Election Commission while the rival faction was simultaneously holding a special convention in New Town, Kolkata. The convention reportedly focused on creating an alternative national leadership structure for the party.

Rival Claims Intensify

The Rittabrata Banerjee-led faction has claimed that it enjoys majority support within the party's legislative wing. During its convention, the group announced a separate National Executive Committee that excluded both Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee from leadership positions.

The rebel camp elected Arup Roy as chairperson, while Rittabrata Banerjee was appointed among the party's general secretaries. The faction has indicated that it plans to formally submit its organisational structure to the Election Commission in the coming days.

Meanwhile, several leaders who were earlier associated with the party's official organisational structure have reportedly been removed from key positions. The development highlights the widening divide within the Trinamool Congress.

Election Commission's Role

The dispute now centers on which faction represents the legitimate organisational and legislative majority of the party. Under election laws, the Election Commission has the authority to examine claims related to party leadership, organisational control, and ownership of election symbols.

Political analysts note that such cases typically involve scrutiny of party constitutions, support among elected representatives, and backing within organisational units. If the Election Commission is unable to reach a definitive conclusion, the matter could eventually move to the judiciary.

The confrontation comes at a sensitive time for West Bengal politics. The Trinamool Congress has dominated the state's political landscape for over a decade, making the outcome of the leadership dispute significant for both the party and its opponents.

With both camps preparing legal and organisational arguments to support their claims, the battle over the Trinamool Congress name, symbol, and leadership is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. The Election Commission's decision could shape the future direction of the party and influence political alignments ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

The dispute over recognition of rebel TMC MPs is headed for a crucial review, with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expected to hear both factions before taking a decision ahead of the Monsoon Session.

A significant political and parliamentary development is unfolding in the Lok Sabha as a group of rebel Members of Parliament from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has sought separate recognition from the parent party. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is expected to take a decision on the matter after hearing submissions from both the rebel faction and the leadership camp led by Mamata Banerjee.

According to parliamentary sources, the Speaker's office has initiated consultations with both sides and may also seek legal opinion before arriving at a final conclusion. The matter is likely to have implications for parliamentary procedure as well as anti-defection law interpretations.

Speaker Seeks Both Views

Sources indicated that invitations have been sent to representatives of the rival groups within the TMC to present their positions before the Speaker.

The move follows a memorandum submitted by 17 rebel MPs, who met the Speaker and sought recognition as a separate bloc in the Lok Sabha. The MPs also reportedly informed the Speaker about seating arrangements sought for their group and plans related to their political future.

Officials familiar with the process said the Speaker is keen to ensure that any decision taken can withstand legal scrutiny if challenged before judicial forums.

Legal Opinion Under Consideration

Parliamentary sources said the Speaker's office may consult the Ministry of Law and Justice before issuing its ruling.

The objective, according to sources, is to assess the constitutional and legal implications of the demand, particularly in relation to the anti-defection provisions contained in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution.

The issue has attracted attention because the rebel MPs have reportedly proposed an association with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), raising questions about the legal validity of such a move.

Experts Cite Constitutional Limits

Constitutional experts have expressed reservations regarding the rebels' proposal.

Former Lok Sabha Secretary General and constitutional expert PDT Achary has reportedly stated that under existing anti-defection provisions, political parties—not individual MPs—have the authority to merge with another party.

According to this interpretation, legislators cannot independently decide to merge with another political formation without a corresponding decision by the parent party.

A former Election Commission official also described the proposed arrangement as unusual, noting that such a mechanism is not explicitly provided for under either the anti-defection law or the Representation of the People Act.

TMC Raises Procedural Objection

The Trinamool Congress has objected to the manner in which the consultation process was initiated.

Party sources claimed that an email was sent to Abhishek Banerjee on June 15 inviting him to appear before the Speaker within a short timeframe.

According to the party, Abhishek Banerjee was attending proceedings related to an Enforcement Directorate inquiry at the time and did not have immediate access to his communication devices.

TMC leaders have argued that adequate opportunity should be provided before any decision affecting parliamentary recognition is taken.

Rebels Signal NDA Support

The political significance of the dispute increased after rebel leaders publicly indicated their willingness to work with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Following their meeting with the Speaker, rebel MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar reportedly stated that more than two-thirds of the party's Lok Sabha MPs had supported the demand for separate recognition and that the group intended to cooperate with the NDA under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The claim has been strongly contested by the TMC leadership.

NCPI Comes Into Focus

The Nationalist Citizens Party of India, which has figured prominently in the controversy, is registered in West Bengal with an address in Howrah district.

The party made its electoral debut in the 2023 Tripura Assembly elections but secured a limited vote share. Political observers note that despite its modest electoral footprint, the party has now unexpectedly emerged at the centre of a potentially significant parliamentary dispute.

With the Monsoon Session approaching, attention is now focused on the Speaker's decision, which could set an important precedent regarding parliamentary group recognition, party affiliation and the interpretation of anti-defection provisions.

TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay held talks with Amit Shah in Delhi, intensifying speculation over a rebel parliamentary bloc.

 Veteran Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Saturday, a development that has added fresh momentum to speculation surrounding a growing rebel camp within the TMC's Lok Sabha contingent.

Sought appointment for days

According to sources, Bandyopadhyay had been trying to secure time with Shah for several days before the meeting finally materialised. The Kolkata North MP also met Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju during his Delhi visit, sources said.

Meeting with Yadav a day earlier

The Shah meeting came a day after Bandyopadhyay reportedly held discussions with senior BJP leader and Union minister Bhupender Yadav. He was accompanied during that visit by fellow TMC MP Satabdi Roy, who is also believed to be part of the dissident group. The two leaders spent close to an hour at Yadav's residence, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Rebel MPs eye Sunday huddle

Sources indicated that the group of dissident Trinamool MPs is likely to hold an important meeting on Sunday, where Bandyopadhyay could be projected as one of the lead voices. Plans are also reportedly underway for the rebel lawmakers to call on Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday, with a possible request for recognition as a separate parliamentary group.

From Lok Sabha leader to rebel face

Bandyopadhyay's political trajectory within the party has been closely watched in recent months. He had earlier served as the Trinamool Congress's leader in the Lok Sabha, a position he gave up after health setbacks, with TMC chief Mamata Banerjee subsequently handing the charge to Abhishek Banerjee. His latest meetings in Delhi have now raised questions about whether he could take on a leadership role within the breakaway group, should one formally take shape.

Curiosity over direct Shah meeting

While several rebel TMC MPs have met Bhupender Yadav in recent weeks, a direct meeting with the Union Home Minister marks a new development. Political observers say Bandyopadhyay's outreach to Shah signals a deepening of his ties with sections opposed to the current Trinamool leadership, and could shape the contours of any future bloc in Parliament.

Party colleagues hit out

The development has not gone unnoticed within the TMC. Senior leaders Kunal Ghosh and Kalyan Banerjee have publicly criticised Bandyopadhyay over his reported proximity to the dissident MPs, pointing to the widening cracks within the party's parliamentary unit.

With the rebel camp's numbers reportedly swelling and key meetings lined up over the coming days, all eyes will be on whether Bandyopadhyay's Delhi visit translates into a more formal role within the group — and how the Trinamool leadership responds to the growing internal dissent.

Twenty rebel TMC MPs, including Sayoni Ghosh and Mala Roy, will seek recognition as a separate group when they meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla tomorrow.

Twenty Trinamool Congress (TMC) Lok Sabha MPs who broke away from Mamata Banerjee’s party will meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in New Delhi on Monday to press for recognition as a separate parliamentary group, party sources and officials said on Sunday.

Rebel deputation heads to Delhi

Sayoni Ghosh and Mala Roy, two MPs aligned with the rebel camp, left Kolkata for Delhi on Sunday morning. A picture from Kolkata airport showed the two departing together. Jagadish (Jagadish Chandra) Basunia, one of the rebel MPs, told reporters the group would seek formal recognition and arrangements to sit separately in the House.

“The delegation will request the Speaker to accept our letter and make arrangements for a separate bloc,” a source close to the rebels said, adding the drive is aimed at securing institutional space in the Lok Sabha ahead of the new session.

What the rebels will ask

According to initial reports, the rebel MPs will present the signatures and documentation showing the backing of 20 out of the 28 TMC MPs in the Lok Sabha. Under the Tenth Schedule (Anti-Defection Law), a group backed by at least two-thirds of a party’s legislators can claim to be a separate faction and seek recognition from the Speaker or the Chairman.

TMC’s Lok Sabha strength and the arithmetic

TMC originally had 28 MPs in the Lok Sabha. With 20 MPs now aligned to the rebel camp, they have crossed the two-thirds threshold for the party’s parliamentary strength. That count, if accepted by the Speaker, would allow the group to be recognised as a separate entity — a step that could carry implications for seating, committee assignments and parliamentary procedure.

Party removals and fallout

Both Sayoni Ghosh and Mala Roy were removed from party posts by Mamata Banerjee on June 12. Sayoni had been serving as president of the party’s youth wing; Anrab Banerjee has been named to that post, party sources confirmed. Mala Roy was removed as president of the TMC women’s wing. The removals came amid intensifying factional tension after the party’s poor performance in recent elections.

Legal notices and family disputes

The political rupture has also produced legal moves. Baidyanath, son of MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, has reportedly sent legal notices to senior leaders including Mamata Banerjee, Mahua Moitra and Kalyan Banerjee. He asserted that neither he nor his mother sought a ticket from the Barasat Assembly seat, signalling disputes over nominations and local claims.

Rebellion timeline and comparison

The split within the TMC accelerated rapidly after Mamata Banerjee’s electoral defeat. Results declared on May 4 were followed by a letter from rebel MPs to the Lok Sabha Speaker on May 18 seeking recognition as a separate group. A list of 19 names — including high-profile figures such as Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, Yusuf Pathan and Shatabdi Roy — surfaced on June 12 with signatures attached.

Observers note parallels with the 2022 Shiv Sena split in Maharashtra, when a large group of MLAs broke away, prompting legal battles and a floor test. The final arbiter in such matters is often the Speaker or, if contested, the courts.

Impact on TMC’s strength

The rebellion has significantly reduced Mamata Banerjee’s parliamentary and legislative clout. In the Assembly, 58 of TMC’s 80 MLAs have reportedly joined the rebel camp, leaving the party with 22 MLAs. In the Lok Sabha, the split has left Mamata with only eight MPs. The Rajya Sabha has seen resignations too, with four of the party’s 13 members quitting in quick succession in June.

What to expect next

The ball now lies with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who will examine the rebel group’s claim and supporting documents. If he accepts their petition, the rebels can get recognition as a separate parliamentary group; if he refuses, the matter could move to the courts. TMC’s central leadership has the option to contest any such decision through legal channels, party insiders said.

For now, Delhi will host a crucial meeting that could redefine TMC’s parliamentary footprint — and reshape the party’s immediate political strategy.

The political temperature in West Bengal rose sharply on Saturday after reports emerged that veteran Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay met senior BJP leader Bhupender Yadav in New Delhi. The development has triggered fresh speculation about a possible shift in political allegiance by one of the TMC’s most experienced parliamentarians at a time when the party is grappling with internal challenges and mounting pressure from investigative agencies.

According to sources, Bandyopadhyay was accompanied by TMC MP Satabdi Roy during the meeting at Yadav’s residence in the national capital. The discussion reportedly lasted for a considerable period, fueling rumors that a significant political decision could be on the horizon.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of growing turbulence within the Trinamool Congress following its disappointing performance in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Reports suggest that several party legislators and parliamentarians have distanced themselves from the current leadership, raising questions about the party’s internal cohesion.

Political Speculation Intensifies

Sources familiar with the developments claim that a section of rebel TMC MPs has already conveyed support for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and communicated their position to the Lok Sabha Speaker. If Bandyopadhyay were to join the group, it could further weaken the TMC’s parliamentary strength and strengthen the BJP’s position in West Bengal politics.

Neither Bandyopadhyay nor the BJP has officially commented on the reports. However, the timing of the meeting has attracted significant political attention, particularly as the state prepares for a new phase of political realignment following the Assembly election outcome.

Political observers believe the next few days could prove crucial in determining whether the meeting was merely exploratory or part of a larger political move.

Investigations Add Pressure

The political speculation coincided with dramatic developments involving TMC National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee. A large contingent of West Bengal Police and Kolkata Police personnel reached Banerjee’s Kalighat residence in the early hours of Saturday. Central Armed Police Force personnel were also deployed outside the premises.

According to local sources, police officers arrived shortly after 3 a.m. and remained at the residence for several hours. While the purpose of the operation has not been officially disclosed, a seizure list prepared after the search reportedly recorded no recovery of incriminating material. Under the section describing seized articles, the document reportedly carried the entry “NIL.”

The police action comes amid multiple investigations involving Banerjee. Earlier this week, he was questioned by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for more than five hours in connection with an alleged Assembly signature forgery case. He has also been summoned again in connection with a separate cyber complaint.

Adding to the pressure, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Banerjee for questioning regarding the alleged primary teacher recruitment scam. Officials have scheduled his appearance before the agency on June 15.

Wider Probe Continues

The scrutiny of TMC leaders did not end there. On Saturday morning, ED officials conducted searches at several locations linked to TMC MLA Madan Mitra as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged municipal recruitment scam.

Search teams reportedly visited Mitra’s residences in Kamarhati and Bhawanipur, along with other locations connected to the probe. According to sources, searches were carried out across eight different premises.

The developments have intensified political debate in West Bengal, with opposition parties accusing the TMC leadership of facing increasing legal and administrative challenges. Meanwhile, TMC leaders have repeatedly alleged that investigative agencies are being used for political purposes, a charge denied by central authorities.

Fresh political uncertainty has surfaced within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), with reports indicating that a group of 18 party MPs may meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on June 8. The development has triggered speculation about a possible split within the party's parliamentary wing, just weeks after a rebellion in the West Bengal Assembly exposed internal divisions in the ruling outfit.

Sources familiar with the matter claim that the group is being led by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, who has emerged as one of the most vocal critics within the party in recent months. While there has been no official confirmation from the TMC leadership regarding the reported meeting, the developments have intensified discussions over the party's future political direction following recent setbacks in the state.

The speculation comes at a sensitive time for the party, which has been dealing with organisational challenges since the change of government in West Bengal. Political observers believe any significant movement within the parliamentary party could have wider implications for the opposition landscape at the national level.

Assembly Rebellion Sparks Concern

The latest reports follow a major political development in the West Bengal Assembly earlier this year. After the Assembly election results, a section of TMC legislators reportedly distanced themselves from the party leadership and formed a separate platform called the "Naba Trinamool Manch."

The group was led by Ritabrata Banerjee and Sandipan Saha, who demanded changes in the party's legislative leadership. The episode raised questions about growing dissatisfaction among certain sections of the party.

Political analysts suggest that the emergence of a similar pattern within the Lok Sabha could create fresh challenges for the TMC leadership as it attempts to maintain unity among its elected representatives.

Numbers Under Scrutiny

The TMC currently has 28 members in the Lok Sabha after the death of MP Sheikh Hazi Nurul Islam, whose constituency remains vacant pending a by-election. The party had secured 29 seats from West Bengal in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The reported figure of 18 MPs has attracted attention because it approaches the threshold required under anti-defection provisions. Constitutional experts note that any move involving a substantial portion of the parliamentary party could potentially alter the legal and political dynamics surrounding party recognition and legislative status.

Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar's name has featured prominently in recent political discussions after she was removed from the post of the party's chief whip in the Lok Sabha. Since then, she has publicly expressed disagreements with the leadership of Mamata Banerjee on multiple occasions.

BJP Reacts to Reports

Reacting to the reports, Rahul Sinha claimed that the Trinamool Congress was facing increasing organisational challenges. He argued that internal conflicts were weakening the party's structure and diverting attention from broader political issues.

However, Sinha also stated that the BJP was not actively looking to induct leaders from the rival camp at present, indicating that the party was closely observing the situation rather than intervening directly.

For now, the reports remain unconfirmed. Neither the TMC leadership nor the MPs concerned have publicly announced plans for a breakaway group. Political attention will remain focused on the proposed June 8 meeting, which could provide greater clarity on whether the developments represent routine internal dissent or the beginning of a larger realignment within the party.

In a major jolt to the Trinamool Congress, 58 rebel MLAs have formally split from the party in the West Bengal Assembly, announcing a separate legislative faction on Wednesday. The group elected recently expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee as its legislature party leader, escalating the internal crisis that has been brewing for weeks.

The development marks one of the largest recorded splits in the TMC since its formation. The rebel MLAs met Assembly Speaker Rathindra Bose and submitted a formal letter of support for the new faction. They have also named Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha, and Siuli Saha as deputy leaders, with Akhruzzaman appointed as chief whip.

Rebels Reject Abhishek's Authority

While the breakaway group has reiterated its recognition of Mamata Banerjee as the party president, it has categorically rejected the leadership of her nephew Abhishek Banerjee and any decisions taken by him regarding the legislative party. Sources familiar with the matter said the rebels were particularly upset over what they claimed was high-handedness in handling Assembly affairs.

The immediate trigger for the rebellion was a letter sent on Abhishek Banerjee’s letterhead to the Speaker, proposing senior TMC leader Shovandev Chattopadhyay’s name as Leader of the Opposition. MLAs Sandipan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee alleged that their signatures were forged on the document.

Mamata Banerjee expelled both legislators from the party on Monday following their complaint. The expulsions appear to have backfired, triggering wider discontent within the ranks.

Dissolution of Party Committees

On the same day, Mamata Banerjee dissolved all state-level committees and frontal organisations of the TMC with immediate effect. Party leaders described the move as a step towards complete organisational restructuring. Fresh committees are expected to be announced soon.

Key Developments That Led to the Crisis

The current turmoil comes against the backdrop of several setbacks and internal rumblings in recent weeks.

On May 31, as many as 60 of the 80 TMC MLAs skipped a crucial meeting called by Mamata Banerjee. The meeting had to be postponed. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh had then said the absent legislators were busy preparing protests against alleged attacks on Abhishek Banerjee.

The same day, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee claimed he was attacked by BJP supporters outside a police station in Hooghly. He alleged that around 10-15 men in saffron clothes pelted stones and abused him.

A day earlier, on May 30, Abhishek Banerjee himself was allegedly assaulted in South Sonarpur, with eggs and slippers thrown at him. The party claimed there was an attempt on his life and five persons were later arrested.

Earlier, on May 27, TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar resigned from all party posts. Her resignation came after she attended a meeting chaired by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.

On May 20, only 35 MLAs turned up for the party’s first major protest after the Assembly election defeat. The protest was held near the Ambedkar statue in the Assembly complex against post-poll violence and anti-encroachment drives.

Photo from June 1 Shows Early Signs of Rebellion

A photograph from June 1 showed Ritabrata Banerjee and Sandipan Saha in a meeting with other MLAs, signalling the early stages of the brewing discontent.

What Lies Ahead

The formation of the breakaway faction has raised questions about the future strength of the TMC in the Assembly and the stability of Mamata Banerjee’s hold over the party. Political observers note that while the rebels have stopped short of fully severing ties with Mamata, the open rejection of Abhishek Banerjee’s authority points to deep fissures within the organisation.

The Speaker’s office is yet to take a final call on the recognition of the new faction. The coming days are likely to see further political manoeuvring as both sides attempt to consolidate support.

The split comes at a time when the TMC is still recovering from its Assembly election performance and facing pressure from opposition parties, particularly the BJP.

Expelled Trinamool Congress leader Riju Dutta claims more than 50 of the party's 80 MLAs are ready to declare themselves the "real" TMC, as Mamata Banerjee leads a protest in Kolkata against alleged post-poll attacks on party leaders.

Rebel Faction Sharpens Claims

The Trinamool Congress is facing its most serious internal challenge in years, with expelled party leader Riju Dutta claiming that over 50 of the party's 80 MLAs are prepared to break away and declare themselves the legitimate face of the All India Trinamool Congress. The rebel group is also said to be seeking the Leader of Opposition post and the party symbol — moves that could trigger a formal split and a prolonged legal battle over the party's identity.

West Bengal minister Tapas Roy added fuel to the fire on Tuesday, saying plainly: "The party will break, which it should." His remarks, made amid an ongoing session of the state legislature, were among the most candid acknowledgements yet from within TMC ranks that the crisis may be irreversible.

Mamata Takes to the Streets

Even as the split speculation mounted, TMC Chairperson and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was on the ground in Kolkata, leading a sit-in protest at Rani Rashmoni Avenue against alleged post-poll violence targeting party leaders. Before arriving at the protest site, she paid floral tributes to B R Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi on Red Road — a deliberate symbolic gesture, observers noted, ahead of what the party is framing as a democratic rights protest.

Several senior TMC figures were present at the site, including newly appointed Leader of Opposition Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, Chandrima Bhattacharya, Indranil Sen, and MP Kalyan Banerjee, who had earlier met Mamata at her Kalighat residence.

Abhishek Banerjee Among Those Allegedly Targeted

At the heart of the TMC's protest is the alleged assault on party National General Secretary and Mamata's nephew Abhishek Banerjee. According to party leaders, a crowd attacked Abhishek and threw eggs at him — an incident the TMC says is emblematic of a wider pattern of politically motivated violence against its representatives in the wake of the state assembly elections.

Kalyan Banerjee, a senior TMC MP, was also said to have been targeted. The party has demanded strict police action and accused the state's new administration of allowing — and in some cases facilitating — the attacks.

Mamata Hits Out at Police, EVMs

Addressing supporters at the protest, Mamata Banerjee levelled serious allegations against law enforcement. "Cops are threatening our leaders. The CP of Chandannagar called our leader and asked him to resign, otherwise he would be arrested," she said, claiming TMC leaders across the state were being picked up in what she described as false cases.

She also renewed her challenge to the election results, alleging that the BJP had rigged counting in 177 of 294 assembly seats. "The EVMs have been hacked. We are maintaining peace, but the government is promoting lawlessness," she said. West Bengal's new Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, speaking separately on Tuesday, did not respond directly to the fraud allegations but issued statements on cultural nationalism, saying recitation of Vande Mataram had been made mandatory in all state schools.

Assembly Appointments, Speaker Standoff

The TMC moved to formalise its role in the new assembly on Tuesday, submitting appointments for its legislative team. Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay has been named Leader of Opposition, with Ashima Patra and Nayana Bandopadhyay as Deputy Leaders, and Firhad Hakim as Chief Whip.

However, the process hit a bureaucratic snag almost immediately. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh said that when he and Ashima Patra went to the Speaker's office to submit the letter, the Speaker was absent. The office secretary reportedly told them the Speaker had verbally instructed that no letter be received. "What kind of custodian of democracy is the Speaker?" Ghosh said.

What Comes Next

The coming days are likely to be decisive. If the rebel MLAs formally declare their faction the "real" Trinamool and stake a claim to the party's symbol, the matter will move to the Election Commission — a process that can take months and has historically torn parties apart. For now, Mamata's counter-move appears to be keeping her core loyalists visible and vocal while the expulsion of rebel leaders signals she is not in a mood for negotiation.

West Bengal Police have arrested five individuals in connection with the stone-pelting and scuffle that targeted Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee during his visit to violence-hit South Sonarpur on Saturday. The development has intensified political tensions in the state following the BJP’s victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.

The arrests were made after overnight raids on Sunday, with police relying heavily on video footage from the area. Officials said the accused have been identified as local residents allegedly linked to the incident.

Attack During Political Visit

Abhishek Banerjee had gone to South Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas district to meet TMC workers who claimed they were targeted in post-poll violence. According to party leaders, a group of protesters, reportedly BJP supporters, surrounded his vehicle, raised slogans, and pelted him with stones, eggs, and shoes. His shirt was torn in the scuffle.

Security personnel quickly intervened and escorted the MP out of the area. Images and videos circulating on social media showed Banerjee emerging wearing a protective helmet. Party workers said the situation turned chaotic within minutes of his arrival.

Mamata Banerjee Calls it a Conspiracy

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who visited Banerjee at a Kolkata hospital, strongly condemned the attack. She described it as a “pre-planned conspiracy” and said the MP was lucky to have escaped serious injury.

“If he had not been wearing a helmet, he could have died on the spot,” Mamata told reporters. She claimed that blood clots had formed following the assault and questioned the sequence of medical events. 

The Chief Minister alleged that BJP leaders and a senior police officer had put pressure on hospital authorities to discharge Abhishek Banerjee early. She raised doubts over his initial admission to the Intensive Therapy Unit and subsequent shift.

Shift to Home Treatment

Banerjee has since been taken home from the hospital. According to Mamata, he will now be under the care of a family doctor, with oxygen cylinders and other necessary equipment arranged at his residence. 

TMC sources said the MP met the family of a local party worker who was killed in post-election clashes in the region before the attack occurred.

Police Investigation Underway

South 24 Parganas police have registered a case and are examining multiple video clips and eyewitness statements. A senior officer confirmed that further arrests cannot be ruled out as the probe continues. 

The area has a history of political clashes between TMC and BJP cadres. South Sonarpur remains one of the more sensitive pockets in the district, with repeated incidents reported in recent years.

Post-Poll Violence Backdrop

The incident comes weeks after the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election results, in which the BJP secured a historic majority. The party, led by Suvendu Adhikari, won 208 seats while the TMC was reduced to 80. Several seats in Abhishek Banerjee’s parliamentary constituency also went to the BJP. 

The Sonarpur South Assembly seat is currently held by BJP MLA Roopa Ganguly, who defeated the TMC candidate in the polls. Local tensions have remained high since the results were declared, with both sides accusing each other of violence and intimidation.

Reactions Pour In

The BJP has denied any involvement in the attack and accused the TMC of staging the incident to gain sympathy and divert attention from post-poll setbacks. Party leaders called Mamata Banerjee’s allegations “baseless and politically motivated.”

Senior TMC leaders, meanwhile, demanded a fair and time-bound investigation and alleged that the local administration was soft on the attackers. 

The attack has once again highlighted the deeply polarised political atmosphere in rural and semi-urban pockets of South 24 Parganas. Many residents say everyday life continues to be disrupted by rival political groups even after the elections.

As of now, Abhishek Banerjee is reported to be stable. Police have increased security in the South Sonarpur area to prevent any further flare-ups. The case remains under active investigation.

Veteran singer Usha Uthup has responded to a viral social media post that linked her Bengali song “Didi” to the alleged electoral defeat of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The singer strongly denied the claims, calling them misleading and incorrect, and clarified that the song has no political connection whatsoever.

The controversy began when a post circulating on X (formerly Twitter) featured a video of Usha Uthup singing the Bengali track “Didi.” The post claimed that the singer was celebrating the political downfall of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the West Bengal Assembly elections. It further alleged that during the TMC government, she faced demands for “cut money” for performances, which supposedly led her to leave Kolkata and move to Mumbai.

The post quickly gained traction on social media, sparking debates and misinformation around the singer’s personal and professional life. However, Usha Uthup promptly addressed the issue through an official statement shared on Instagram, where she categorically rejected all such claims.

In her clarification, Uthup said that several posts circulating across X, Instagram, and WhatsApp were factually incorrect and misleading. She explained that the song in question is a Bengali composition that was created many years ago and is inspired by an Arabic tune. She emphasized that she has been performing the song purely as a musical piece for over two decades, with no political or ideological meaning attached to it.

The singer also addressed another widely circulated claim that she had left Kolkata due to political reasons and later returned. She firmly dismissed this narrative, stating that she has been living in Kolkata since 1976 and has never relocated to Mumbai on a permanent basis. According to her, Kolkata has always been her home, and she continues to maintain a deep emotional and cultural connection with the city and its people.

Uthup further expressed disappointment over the misuse of her name in political narratives, stating that she does not wish to be dragged into unrelated controversies. She clarified that she does not endorse or associate herself with any of the claims made in the viral post and bears no responsibility for such fabricated stories.

In her concluding remarks, she appealed to social media users to refrain from spreading false information and requested that she not be unnecessarily pulled into political debates. Signing off warmly, she added “lots of love, Didi (Usha Uthup),” reinforcing her affectionate and apolitical tone in the statement.

The clarification comes at a time when misinformation on social media platforms continues to blur the line between entertainment and political discourse. Viral posts often use edited videos or out-of-context content to create misleading narratives, which can quickly influence public perception before fact-checking occurs.

The specific claim linking the “Didi” song to the alleged 2026 West Bengal election outcome also added fuel to the controversy. According to the viral post, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a significant victory in the state elections, winning 207 seats in the 294-member assembly, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) reportedly suffered a major setback, falling to 80 seats. The post further claimed that Mamata Banerjee lost her Bhabanipur seat by a large margin and that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first BJP Chief Minister of West Bengal.

However, Uthup’s statement makes it clear that she has no connection to any such political interpretations or claims being circulated online. She reiterated that her work as a singer spans decades and is rooted purely in music, culture, and artistic expression.

Usha Uthup, known for her powerful voice and unique musical style, has been a prominent figure in Indian music for decades. Her repertoire spans multiple languages and genres, and she has built a reputation as one of India’s most respected and versatile performers. Over the years, she has often been admired for her ability to transcend regional and linguistic boundaries through her music.

This incident once again highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, where public figures are frequently drawn into controversies based on unverified or manipulated content. Despite Uthup’s clear clarification, the viral nature of the original post demonstrates how quickly narratives can spread online before being corrected.

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Tempers ran high in Howrah  when Suvendu Adhikari, BJP leader and Leader of Opposition, clashed with TMC supporters during his roadshow through the Bali constituency. What started as a normal campaign rally quickly turned chaotic. As Adhikari’s convoy rolled in, TMC workers started chanting “Jai Bangla” and other slogans, which clearly set him off.

Adhikari didn’t hold back. He stormed over to confront the crowd directly, shouting “chor, chor” (thief, thief) right at the TMC group. It got tense fast, and security and local police had to step in to keep things from spiraling into a physical fight.

This isn’t a one-off. The Howrah incident is just the latest flashpoint in a series of face-offs between BJP and TMC, as West Bengal’s elections inch closer to their final stages. TMC supporters say the BJP is stirring up trouble among locals, while BJP leaders insist their events are being deliberately disrupted by “TMC goons.”

Adhikari has been in the thick of things lately, contesting big seats like Bhabanipur and trying to hold onto his stronghold in Nandigram. He’s become a regular target for TMC protests, and this showdown in Howrah just adds to the tense, almost combative political atmosphere on the ground in West Bengal right now.Suvendu Adhikari’s temper flared up Wednesday evening during a roadshow in Howrah’s Bali constituency, after TMC supporters allegedly disrupted his convoy.

It all started out like a regular political event — nothing too dramatic. But things got heated fast. As Adhikari’s convoy rolled through the area, TMC workers reportedly yelled out “Jai Bangla” and other slogans. That’s when Adhikari snapped. He didn’t just fire back verbally, he marched right up and shouted “chor, chor” (“thief, thief”) at the crowd. People could see he was fuming. Security and police had to step in so things didn’t get physical.

This whole scene is just another flashpoint between BJP and TMC, as the West Bengal elections near their final stages. TMC folks said the BJP was riling up the locals, while BJP leaders claimed their events kept getting blocked by “TMC goons.”

Adhikari’s no stranger to these run-ins. He’s campaigning hard, contesting in high-profile seats like Bhabanipur and holding onto Nandigram, and TMC protests seem to follow him everywhere. This Howrah face-off just adds to the tense, almost “war-like” atmosphere that’s taken over West Bengal politics lately.

Mamata-Abishek to Address Counting Agents Today Amid Strong Room Tampering Fears

TMC leadership to hold virtual meet at 4 pm; agents asked to stay vigilant as Bengal awaits Lok Sabha results

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee will hold a virtual meeting with counting agents on Saturday evening, party sources confirmed. The 4 pm session comes as the ruling party raises concerns over possible tampering inside strong rooms where EVMs are stored ahead of the June 4 vote count.

Virtual Meet at 4 pm

The online briefing will cover counting-day protocols, with emphasis on maintaining constant watch at each table. According to officials familiar with the planning, nearly all booth-level agents have been assigned and will receive final instructions before the meeting ends. The TMC leadership is not leaving anything to chance this time.

Agents Told to Ignore Exit Polls

Sources indicate that Abhishek Banerjee will specifically ask counting agents to disregard exit poll projections entirely. "Stay alert till the last round is completed," a party insider quoted the instruction. Agents have been told that substitutes must be ready to step in whenever needed, and any unusual activity near counting tables requires immediate reporting to the candidate's representative.

Strong Room Tensions in Kolkata

The directive follows heightened anxieties around strong room security over the past fortnight. At Shakhaowat Memorial School in south Kolkata, TMC representatives had flagged what they called "loose access protocols" last week. Similar concerns emerged from Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, where party workers reported unauthorised personnel movement during late evening hours. Local authorities have denied any irregularities, but the opposition remains unconvinced.

Discipline Over Provocation

Agents will receive a clear message about maintaining restraint inside counting centres. "Do not engage in arguments. Do not walk away from your post. Report, don't react," a draft advisory reportedly states. The party expects nearly 50,000 agents across Bengal's 42 constituencies to remain on guard through what could be a long counting day. Many will work in 12-hour shifts, with limited breaks.

What Happens Next

Counting of votes for all 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal begins at 8 am on June 4. Postal ballots will be taken up first, followed by EVM counts. The TMC has set up district-level control rooms to receive real-time updates from agents. Mamata Banerjee is expected to be at her Kalighat residence through the day, monitoring trends as they emerge. For now, the message is simple: watch every vote, trust no shortcut, and stay till the final number is called out.