Rebel TMC MPs Meet BJP Leaders in Delhi

At least 10 rebel Trinamool Congress MPs met with senior BJP leaders in Delhi on Monday ^[1].

The meeting signals a deepening internal crisis for the Trinamool Congress as a significant faction of its lawmakers engages with the party's primary political opponent. This shift occurs while party leader Mamata Banerjee is attempting to maintain the party's strategic position within the broader opposition alliance.

The lawmakers gathered at the residence of Union Minister Bhupender Yadav (BJP) for closed-door discussions ^[2]. The meeting took place as Banerjee attended a session of the INDIA bloc to discuss strategy and chart a response to the intensifying turbulence within her own party ^[1].

Reports indicate that the number of rebel lawmakers involved in these talks is 10 or more ^[2]. Some sources suggest the instability extends further, with as many as 23 MPs reportedly in touch with the rebel camp ^[3].

This internal rebellion has moved from Kolkata to the national capital, highlighting a breakdown in party discipline. The rebel MPs met with BJP leadership to discuss their next steps against the current party direction ^[1].

The timing of the meeting is particularly significant given the ongoing negotiations of the INDIA bloc. While Banerjee works to coordinate with other opposition parties, a portion of her legislative strength is negotiating with the ruling party, a development that could weaken the TMC's leverage in both the state and national arenas.