Rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) lawmakers met at a senior BJP leader's New Delhi residence to discuss forming a separate parliamentary bloc.

The gathering signals a deepening crisis for the TMC leadership, as a significant number of lawmakers may attempt to break away from the party. Such a move could weaken the party's influence in Parliament and trigger a wider political realignment in West Bengal.

More than eight rebel MPs attended the meeting [1]. Among those present were Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Ray and MLA Ritabrata Banerjee [1]. The rebel faction has declared Banerjee as its leader [1].

Reports indicate the internal turmoil extends beyond those present at the meeting, with 23 MPs reported to be in touch with the rebel camp [2]. This potential exodus follows the resignation of Sukhendu Ray, which occurred hours before the meeting details surfaced [1].

The rebels are reportedly dissatisfied with the current TMC leadership and are seeking an independent bloc to operate within the legislature [2]. However, the path to a legal split remains precarious. TMC leaders said that any attempt to break away would face challenges under the anti-defection law [3].

In response to the developments, party leader Mamata Banerjee called an emergency meeting to address the instability [2]. The party leadership said that the legal framework governing parliamentary membership prevents members from forming a new bloc without losing their seats [3].

The meeting took place at the residence of a Union Minister and senior BJP leader, highlighting the strategic nature of the dissidents' coordination [1].

“Rebel TMC lawmakers met at a senior BJP leader's New Delhi residence to discuss forming a separate parliamentary bloc.”

The potential split of the TMC represents a significant risk to Mamata Banerjee's legislative strength. If the rebel faction cannot find a legal loophole in the anti-defection law, they may face disqualification from their seats. However, the coordination with BJP leadership suggests a strategic effort to destabilize the TMC from within, potentially shifting the balance of power in the region.