Three former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MPs formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kolkata on June 11, 2026 [1].

The defections provide a strategic boost to the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as it seeks a two-thirds majority in the Upper House [2]. This shift in allegiance occurs just ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament, potentially altering the legislative balance of power.

Among those joining the party are Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, and Prakash Chik Baraik [1]. While some reports initially indicated Baraik was hesitant about the move, subsequent reports confirmed he was among the three members who formally entered the party on Thursday [1].

Dev said that her decision was based on a belief in the BJP's vision for development and the future of West Bengal [3]. She also cited concerns regarding the future of the TMC in Assam as a factor in her departure [4].

The BJP said that these defections reflect growing confidence in its governance [4]. The ruling coalition is specifically targeting a two-thirds majority in the Rajya Sabha, which requires approximately 164 of the 245 seats [2].

To solidify this numerical advantage, the BJP has named the three former TMC members as candidates for Rajya Sabha by-polls [5]. This move ensures that the members can return to the Upper House under their new party banner.

The induction ceremony in Kolkata marks a significant blow to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's party, as high-profile members migrate toward the NDA's development platform [1].

“"I have decided to join the BJP because I believe in its vision for development and the future of West Bengal,"”

The movement of these three MPs is more than a symbolic loss for the Trinamool Congress; it is a calculated move by the BJP to secure a supermajority in the Rajya Sabha. A two-thirds majority allows the NDA to pass constitutional amendments and critical legislation without needing support from opposition parties, significantly reducing the legislative hurdles for the ruling government's agenda.