Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal dismissed reports of a possible merger between the Indian National Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) as "totally baseless rumours".
The denial comes as political speculation grows regarding the stability of the INDIA alliance and the political landscape in West Bengal. A merger would fundamentally alter the opposition's strategy against the ruling BJP, making this clarification critical for party supporters and alliance partners.
Venugopal addressed the press in New Delhi on June 11, 2024 [1]. He said that the recent meeting between leaders of the two parties was not a precursor to a merger but was instead a routine discussion within the INDIA alliance [2].
According to Venugopal, the dialogue focused on strengthening the alliance and addressing national concerns. "The meeting was a routine discussion within the INDIA alliance," he said [3].
The Congress leader further clarified that the party's current priorities remain centered on broader political goals rather than organizational consolidation with the TMC. "We are focusing only on national issues," Venugopal said [4].
These reports had surfaced amid ongoing political turmoil in West Bengal, leading to speculation that the Congress might integrate with the TMC to consolidate the anti-BJP vote. However, the party maintains that its relationship with the TMC is based on cooperation within the alliance framework rather than a formal union.
Venugopal said that any claims suggesting a merger are unfounded and should be ignored by the public and party workers [2].
“"Totally baseless rumours"”
This denial serves to maintain the distinct identity of the Indian National Congress while preserving the fragile cohesion of the INDIA alliance. By framing the meeting as 'routine,' the party seeks to neutralize speculation that it is losing its independent footing in West Bengal or is forced into a merger due to electoral pressures.
