Three former Rajya Sabha members from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday [1].

The move represents a significant shift in West Bengal's political landscape, dealing a blow to TMC leader Mamata Banerjee as former allies migrate to the opposition party.

Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, and Prakash Chik Baraik formalized their membership at the BJP office in Salt Lake, Kolkata [1], [2]. The three politicians had previously resigned from both the Trinamool Congress and the Rajya Sabha before switching their allegiance to the BJP [2].

This defection follows weeks of tension within the TMC. The transition of these three [1] former lawmakers suggests a growing churn within the party ranks, particularly following recent electoral losses.

Local reports indicate that the induction occurred on July 9, 2026 [1]. The BJP has sought to strengthen its presence in the region by absorbing high-profile members from the ruling state party, a strategy aimed at eroding the TMC's influence in the upper house and regional strongholds.

While the BJP welcomed the new members, the TMC has faced internal criticism. Some party members said the rebels are power-hungry in the wake of the party's recent political challenges [3].

“Three former Rajya Sabha members from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)”

The departure of three seasoned lawmakers underscores the fragility of the Trinamool Congress's internal cohesion. By absorbing former TMC Rajya Sabha MPs, the BJP is not only increasing its numerical strength but also gaining strategic insights and established political networks within West Bengal, potentially weakening Mamata Banerjee's grip on regional power dynamics.