Sushmita Dev, a Rajya Sabha MP and member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), resigned from the party and her upper-house seat on June 10, 2024 [1].
Dev's departure marks a significant shift in the TMC's legislative strength, as she is one of two party MPs to resign this week [3]. The move signals growing instability within the party's ranks and suggests a potential realignment of political power in Assam.
Dev announced her resignation in New Delhi, saying she is now a "free woman" [2]. She cited a combination of personal and political reasons for the decision, expressing a desire to be independent of party constraints, and a wish to work within Assam [4, 5].
Following her announcement, Dev traveled to Assam to meet with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma [6]. While she has not yet officially joined another party, the meeting with the chief minister suggests a strategic pivot toward the state's current leadership.
Dev joined the TMC in 2021 [2]. Despite the timing of her exit, she noted the necessity of the move for her own autonomy.
"Worst time to quit, but entitled to think for myself," Dev said [7].
She further emphasized her need for clarity in her political affiliations, saying, "I don't want to be in two boats" [6].
“Today, I am a free woman.”
The resignation of Sushmita Dev reflects a broader trend of attrition within the Trinamool Congress, particularly among leaders with strong ties to Assam. By vacating her Rajya Sabha seat and meeting with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Dev is positioning herself for a possible return to regional politics in Assam, potentially aligning with the BJP-led administration to regain local influence.
