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.

In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of the West Bengal Police on Monday arrested Trinamool Congress (TMC) strongman Jahangir Khan from the India-Nepal border area in north Bengal. Khan, who has been on the run for several days, was reportedly attempting to cross over into the neighboring country when a joint team of the STF and Darjeeling Police intercepted him.

Midnight Border Interception

The arrest took place around 2:30 PM at Panitanki Bazar under the Kharibari Police Station jurisdiction, a stone's throw away from the international border. Acting on precise intelligence inputs regarding his escape plan, tracking teams monitored his movements before closing in.

“He was tracked down near the border based on specific inputs. Initial reports indicate he was trying to flee the country to evade the law,” a senior police official stated. Following his detention, Khan was taken to the Phansidewa Police Station for a mandatory medical examination and is being escorted back to Kolkata under heavy security.

Mounting Extortion Charges

Jahangir Khan is currently facing seven First Information Reports (FIRs) registered at the Falta Police Station in South 24 Parganas district. The criminal charges primarily involve illegal extortion, land grabbing, and physical intimidation.

Local resentment against Khan had been building up rapidly, with several villagers coming forward to register complaints after a recent change in the region's political landscape. Additionally, the police have already arrested some of his close aides, including local panchayat leaders, on similar counts of extortion and voter intimidation.

Loss of Legal Cover

The crackdown intensified after Khan lost his legal shield last month. On May 26, the Calcutta High Court’s vacation bench refused to extend his interim protection from arrest, which had originally been granted to safeguard him until the conclusion of local polling processes.

His counsel, Kishore Dutta, argued in court that the back-to-back criminal cases were a product of political vendetta following the Assembly election results. However, the prosecution strongly opposed the plea, clarifying that the security was temporary. The court eventually ruled that continuing such immunity was no longer appropriate, paving the way for the STF operation.

The Falta Assembly Debacle

The arrest marks a dramatic fall for the local leader, who was the TMC’s face for the highly contested Falta Assembly seat. The Election Commission had ordered a comprehensive repoll in the constituency on May 21 after widespread evidence of booth capturing, EVM tampering, and webcam footage manipulation surfaced during the initial voting phase on April 29.

In a surprising twist just 48 hours before the fresh voting began, Khan held a press conference on May 19 to announce his sudden withdrawal from the race. Despite his exit, his name remained on the Electronic Voting Machines alongside the TMC symbol.

Crushing Defeat at the Polls

The final election results delivered a severe blow to the ruling party's regional dominance. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, Debangshu Panda, clinched a historic victory by a massive margin of over 1.09 lakh votes, securing 1,49,666 votes.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) emerged as the runner-up, while Khan experienced a humiliating defeat, finishing a distant fourth with just 7,783 votes. The loss disrupted the TMC’s winning streak in Falta, a stronghold the party had held uninterruptedly since 2011.

Flamboyant Campaign to Fugitive

During his high-decibel election campaign, Khan had actively cultivated a larger-than-life persona inspired by the blockbuster film Pushpa. He frequently echoed the movie's signature dialogues on stage, projecting himself as an unyielding local strongman who would never bow down to any administrative or political pressure.

Following his electoral defeat and the withdrawal of his court-mandated protection, Khan completely disappeared from public view, staying away from both his residence and party offices until he was tracked down at the international border. He is scheduled to be produced before a designated court on Tuesday morning.

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.

Cash-for-benefits allegations have triggered political controversy across West Bengal, with local TMC leaders returning money to villagers while fresh questions emerge over irregularities in welfare scheme beneficiary lists.

The controversy surrounding alleged cash-for-benefits collections under government welfare schemes in West Bengal has intensified, with several local leaders linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) returning money to beneficiaries amid mounting public pressure and administrative scrutiny.

The issue has surfaced across multiple districts, including Cooch Behar, Murshidabad, Nadia and South 24 Parganas, where residents have accused local political functionaries of demanding money in exchange for facilitating access to housing and welfare scheme benefits.

Money Returned In Villages

In parts of Cooch Behar district, local leaders reportedly began returning money that had allegedly been collected as commission or "cut money" from beneficiaries. In the Ghughumari area, announcements were made through loudspeakers informing residents that the money would be returned.

A similar development was reported from Subhashpally in Mathabhanga, where commission allegedly collected from 14 beneficiaries of a housing scheme was returned. Local residents said the move came after increasing demands for accountability from villagers.

At Fakirer Kuthi under Pachgarh Gram Panchayat, booth president Tapan De reportedly handed back money to several villagers during a public gathering at a local school ground, a development that quickly drew political attention in the district.

Arrest In Murshidabad

The controversy took a more serious turn in Murshidabad district, where police arrested village deputy chief Sirajul Sheikh following complaints from residents of Nutangram.

According to villagers, amounts ranging between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000 were allegedly collected from beneficiaries under the Banglar Awas Yojana. After complaints were lodged, local authorities initiated action, leading to the arrest.

Officials have not publicly disclosed further details regarding the investigation, but the case has added to concerns over the implementation of welfare schemes at the grassroots level.

Namkhana Case Raises Questions

In Namkhana of South 24 Parganas district, money allegedly collected in the name of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana was also returned to villagers.

Gram Panchayat member Madhab Chandra Laya claimed he voluntarily returned ₹5,000 each to 45 villagers. He further alleged that the collections were made under political pressure and that senior panchayat functionaries and local leaders were aware of the practice.

No formal police complaint has been filed in connection with the allegations in Namkhana so far.

Irregularities In Lakshmir Bhandar

Separate concerns have emerged from Nadia district regarding the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, a flagship welfare programme intended for women beneficiaries.

Authorities found 173 men listed as beneficiaries in Dhubulia despite the scheme's eligibility criteria. Officials confirmed that funds had been withdrawn through these accounts between February and recent months before the discrepancy was identified.

District Magistrate Srikanta Palli said an inquiry was conducted and the names were subsequently removed from the beneficiary database.

The development has reignited debate over beneficiary verification mechanisms and data monitoring within welfare programmes.

Probe Commission Constituted

Amid the growing controversy, the state government on May 18 constituted an Institutional Commission to investigate allegations relating to cut-money practices, misuse of government funds and financial irregularities.

The commission will be headed by retired judge Bishwajit Basu. State authorities have indicated that citizens will be able to submit complaints directly once the commission becomes fully operational.

Officials believe the mechanism could provide a structured platform for examining grievances linked to welfare schemes and local governance.

Political Sparring Continues

The allegations have triggered sharp exchanges between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

BJP leaders have accused local TMC functionaries of coercing villagers into making payments to access government benefits. They allege that beneficiaries were warned they could face delays or denial of services if they refused to pay.

The TMC, however, has distanced itself from the allegations. Party leaders in Cooch Behar said the organisation does not support any form of illegal collection and maintained that any individual found guilty would be personally accountable for their actions.

With investigations underway and political scrutiny intensifying, the cash-for-benefits controversy is likely to remain a significant issue in West Bengal's local governance and welfare administration landscape in the coming weeks.

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.

BJP shatters Bengal glass ceiling with 207 seats; TMC ousted after 15-year rule

In a seismic shift that alters the landscape of Indian politics, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form its first-ever government in West Bengal. Crossing the "final frontier" that had eluded the saffron party for decades, the BJP secured a thumping majority with 207 seats in the 293-member Assembly, effectively ending the 15-year tenure of Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The TMC, which had dominated the state since 2011, saw its tally plummet to 80 seats as the "Saffron Wave" swept through both rural heartlands and urban centres. Election Commission (EC) data confirmed a historic voter turnout of 92.47%, reflecting the high stakes of a campaign that often blurred the lines between a state election and a national referendum.

A historic shift in Kolkata

The atmosphere at the BJP state headquarters in Kolkata turned electric on Monday afternoon as early leads solidified into an unassailable majority. Supporters were seen celebrating with ‘Jhalmuri’ and saffron gulal, marking a symbolic victory in the birthplace of the party's ideological patriarch, Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

For the BJP, this isn't just a state win; it is the culmination of a decade-long expansion strategy. "The people of Bengal have chosen the path of 'Asol Poribortan' (real change)," a senior party strategist noted, requesting anonymity. Initial reports from counting centres indicate that the BJP made significant inroads into traditional TMC bastions, particularly in North Bengal and the tribal belts of Jangal Mahal.

Women voters swing the tide

One of the most defining factors of this mandate appears to be the consolidation of the female electorate. Despite the TMC’s long-standing welfare schemes targeted at women, the BJP managed to pivot the narrative toward safety and central representation. Party insiders suggest that the push for women’s reservation in legislatures created a "silent wave" of support.

Internal BJP data indicates a nearly 5% shift in the women's vote share. With 3.33 crore women voters in the state, this demographic essentially functioned as the party’s "Vikas Mitras," looking beyond local doles toward broader security concerns and national integration.

The Adhikari impact in Bhabanipur

The political humiliation for the TMC was compounded by the performance of Suvendu Adhikari. The former TMC heavyweight, who once served as Mamata Banerjee’s lieutenant, proved to be her most formidable challenger. His victory in the high-profile Bhabanipur and Nandigram seats served as the focal point of the BJP’s aggressive ground campaign.

Adhikari’s ability to pull away organizational cadres from the TMC disrupted the ruling party's booth-level management. His "insider vs. outsider" counter-narrative successfully neutralized the TMC’s attempt to brand the BJP as a party foreign to Bengali culture.

Middle-class angst and job security

The BJP also successfully tapped into the simmering discontent among government employees and the youth. Promises to implement the Seventh Pay Commission within 45 days of forming the government resonated deeply with nearly 50 lakh voters connected to the state and central services.

"There was a sense of being left behind compared to other states," said Arpan Das, a job aspirant at a local counting booth. The BJP’s "Poribortan Yatra," led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, had specifically promised to fill vacant government posts, a move that targeted the 20-30 age demographic which felt sidelined by the existing recruitment processes.

Security measures ensure "fearless" voting

Ground-level cues suggest that the massive deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) played a psychological role in the high turnout. With 500 companies of CAPF stationed across the state and another 200 guarding EVM strongrooms, voters in traditionally "sensitive" zones reportedly felt more secure heading to the booths.

The BJP campaign heavily leveraged public outrage over law-and-order incidents, including the RG Kar hospital tragedy. By framing these issues as a failure of the state machinery, the party turned the election into a mandate on public safety. The RSS's grassroots mobilization further ensured that the "fear factor," often associated with Bengal polls, was significantly diminished.

From Rajasthan 1990 to Bengal 2026

The victory in West Bengal marks a full circle for the BJP’s journey as a governing force. The party first tasted state power in Rajasthan in 1990 under Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. From that humble 85-seat win to becoming the world's largest political party with 11 crore members, the expansion into Bengal represents the final piece of the BJP’s pan-India puzzle.

As the EC prepares to hand over the final certificates, the focus now shifts to the leadership choice for the Chief Minister’s post. While several names are doing the rounds, the party is expected to move quickly to ensure a smooth transition of power in Kolkata.

Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant to Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead late Wednesday night on National Highway 12 near Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district. Police said the attackers had been tracking his movements for at least a week before intercepting his vehicle and firing at close range.

The incident occurred around 11:30 pm when Rath was travelling in a Scorpio towards Siliguri. Near the Doharia area on Jessore Road, bike-borne assailants surrounded the vehicle and opened fire. The driver and two others were also injured.

Eight to fifteen rounds

Initial reports suggested four rounds were fired. But police later revised the count to 8-10 rounds. Hospital sources, however, told reporters that post-mortem examination suggested up to 15-16 bullet injuries. A three-member medical team led by Dr Kallol Ray has been constituted for the autopsy.

Rath sustained gunshot wounds to his chest and head. He was declared brought dead at a nearby hospital.

Movement tracked for a week

Police analysis of CCTV footage from key roads revealed the attackers had monitored Rath’s daily routine meticulously — the routes he took, the vehicle he used, and even the seat he occupied inside the car.

“The assailants knew exactly when and where to intercept him,” an official familiar with the probe said.

Kolkata Police have so far collected footage from eight CCTV cameras. State DGP Siddhinath Gupta is personally reviewing the visuals. A Special Investigation Team is being formed.

Political fallout

BJP workers staged a blockade on NH-12 overnight, demanding an encounter of the attackers. Party spokesperson Keya Ghosh appealed for calm but alleged that back-office BJP workers were being deliberately targeted. “The BJP envisions a government of change, not revenge,” she said.

BJP leader Rakesh Singh went further, demanding the arrest of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and party leader Abhishek Banerjee. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to arrive in Kolkata later today.

TMC demands court-monitored CBI probe

In an unexpected move, the Trinamool Congress condemned the killing and demanded a CBI inquiry under court supervision. “We demand strict action. The killing of other BJP and TMC workers should also be investigated,” the party said in a statement.

Mother alleges political motive

Hasirani Rath, the victim’s mother, demanded life imprisonment for the killers. “I do not want them hanged, I want life imprisonment,” she said, alleging her son was targeted for political reasons linked to Adhikari’s electoral victory over Banerjee.

Separate shooting same night

About an hour after Rath’s killing, a BJP worker named Rohit Roy was shot and critically injured in Basirhat district. Over the last two days, at least five political workers — two from the BJP and three from the TMC — have reportedly been killed in the state.

A special session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly has been called for May 25.

After fifteen long years, the Bastin Bazar Durga Temple in Asansol finally reopened its doors. This isn’t just about a temple—people see it as a big shift in West Bengal's cultural scene.

It all happened this week. The temple’s gates swung open after years of political wrangling and legal battles. The BJP recently made big election gains in the area, and local MLA Krishnendu Mukherjee kept his campaign promise: daily worship is back at Bastin Bazar.

For fifteen years, the place had been almost off-limits. The Shri Shri Durgamata Charitable Trust managed the temple, and except for the short Durga Puja festival, most people couldn’t get near it.

Tuesday morning felt electric. Devotees crowded inside, conch shells echoed, and chants filled the air. A shopkeeper said, “We’ve waited for this day for 15 years. This temple is the soul of our market.” You could feel the relief and excitement—they'd missed their temple.

The building itself got caught up in political tensions. The BJP and the Trinamool Congress argued endlessly, with BJP leaders saying the government ignored High Court orders about the temple. On the other hand, local officials insisted the closure was about administrative and trust disputes—not politics.

Now, the BJP is calling the reopening a “victory for Hindu identity” in Bengal. Party supporters claim the previous administration suppressed religious life. Krishnendu Mukherjee and senior BJP members were there for the celebrations, leading prayers and marking their win.

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.