Shantanu Dey, founder of the National Congress Party of India (NCPI), welcomed 20 rebel MPs from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) into his party this week [1].
The merger represents a significant expansion of the NCPI's political footprint in West Bengal. By absorbing these members, the party seeks to strengthen its support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and increase its influence within the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance [2].
Dey said the growth of the party was a milestone during an interview aired on CNN-News18. "Why won't I be happy if my party grows?" Dey said [2].
The NCPI was formed in 2022 [3]. The addition of 20 legislators [1] marks a rapid increase in the party's legislative strength since its inception.
However, the merger has sparked internal friction regarding the party's decision-making process. In one report, Dey said the decision about the merger from NCPI was taken by the party president, Shewly Kundu [2]. Other reports indicate a divide within the party, noting that Dey previously suggested party leadership was not consulted and that such decisions should not be taken unilaterally [4].
Despite these contradictions, the public stance of the party remains focused on growth. The integration of the former TMC members is intended to pivot the NCPI toward a more dominant role in regional politics, specifically by aligning with the national government's agenda [2].
“"Why won't I be happy if my party grows?"”
The absorption of 20 rebel MPs from the TMC indicates a strategic shift for the NCPI, moving from a small 2022 startup party to a more substantial regional player. By aligning with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, the NCPI is positioning itself as a viable alternative for TMC dissidents, though the reported internal disagreements over the merger's authorization suggest potential instability in the party's governance structure.
