All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad held a press conference in New Delhi on June 9, 2026, to address a growing internal rebellion. The party faces a significant split as 20 rebel MPs reportedly plan to form a separate bloc to support the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre.
Did You Know?
The current internal friction within the All India Trinamool Congress escalated following a meeting between several party MPs and Union Minister and BJP West Bengal observer Bhupendra Yadav at his residence on June 8, 2026.
The Scope of the Rebellion
Kalyan Banerjee, the Chief Whip of the AITC in the Lok Sabha, publicly criticized the rebel faction for their reported alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party. During the press conference, Mr. Banerjee stated, “Today their leader is Narendra Modi. They have become BJP.” He further challenged the rebel MPs to stop using their TMC affiliation, questioning whether they had supported the families of affected party workers following recent election results.
According to Mr. Banerjee, Barasat Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar is emerging as the leader of this new bloc. He alleged that Ms. Dastidar has been targeting TMC leaders in her area with assistance from the BJP, noting that she has secured security from both the State and Central governments.
Legal Developments and Political Implications
Expert Insight:
The arrest of Sabyasachi Dutta on June 9, 2026, on charges of extortion and criminal intimidation introduces a layer of legal pressure that complicates the party’s internal crisis. When a political organization faces both a structural exodus of 20 MPs and the arrest of a leader, it suggests a multi-front challenge that could fundamentally alter the power balance in West Bengal politics.
The situation remains volatile, and the formalization of a separate bloc by the 20 rebel MPs could significantly impact the TMC’s standing in the Lok Sabha. If these members officially withdraw their support or join the NDA, it would mark a major shift in the parliamentary configuration regarding West Bengal’s representation.
What Happens Next?
The future of the party depends on how the leadership manages the departure of these 20 MPs. Observers may watch for whether the rebel bloc officially registers as a separate entity in Parliament. Additionally, the legal proceedings against Sabyasachi Dutta in the North 24 Parganas district could serve as a focal point for further political friction between the TMC and the BJP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the main figures leading the response to the rebellion?
Kalyan Banerjee, the Chief Whip of the AITC in the Lok Sabha, and Lok Sabha MP Kirti Azad are the primary leaders addressing the issue on behalf of the party.
What is the primary goal of the 20 rebel MPs?
The rebel MPs reportedly plan to form a separate bloc to provide support to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre.
What was the specific charge against Sabyasachi Dutta?
Sabyasachi Dutta was arrested on charges of extortion and criminal intimidation in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district.
How will these internal fractures influence the stability of political representation in West Bengal?
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