TMC Faces Internal Turmoil Following Election Defeat in West Bengal

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is experiencing significant internal strife following its defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. The party has expelled two legislators, Sandeepan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee, for alleged anti-party activities, signaling growing discontent among party members. This expulsion comes after their absence from a crucial emergency meeting called by party leader Mamata Banerjee. Analysts suggest that this may be just the beginning, as more legislators are reportedly considering switching allegiances. The situation raises questions about the future stability of the TMC and whether these actions will quell the brewing dissent within the party.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 15:40 IST

Internal Discontent Surfaces in TMC

After losing power in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, the simmering discontent within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has come to light. The party leadership took a firm stance on Monday, expelling two current legislators—Sandeepan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee—due to allegations of engaging in anti-party activities. This significant action has confirmed speculations that a considerable faction of party leaders and legislators are dissatisfied with Mamata Banerjee's leadership, indicating a potential fragmentation within the TMC.

Absence from Emergency Meeting Raises Concerns

According to a strict official statement from TMC, the immediate reason for the action against these two legislators was their absence from a crucial emergency meeting convened at party chief Mamata Banerjee's residence in Kalighat on Sunday. This meeting was intended to review the party's future and strategies following the 2026 election results. Furthermore, the party's statement highlighted that both legislators had been making public and private remarks detrimental to the interests of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC).

Membership Revoked and Rights Stripped

The top leadership of TMC has sent a clear message by not tolerating this indiscipline, leading to the expulsion of both leaders. The expulsion letter issued by the party stated: "After serious and appropriate deliberation on this matter, the competent authority of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has decided to expel you from the primary membership of the party with immediate effect. Consequently, from the date of issuance of this notice, you will no longer be entitled to hold any position, responsibility, status, or privileges associated with the party."

Rising Rebellion Following Loss of Power

Political analysts suggest that the historic power shift in West Bengal and the formation of a new government led by Suvendu Adhikari from the BJP have created significant unease within the TMC ranks. Legislators who enjoyed over a decade in power are now reluctant to sit in the opposition. Insider reports indicate that the expulsion of Sandeepan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee is merely the beginning; many other legislators and senior leaders are reportedly preparing to switch allegiances or carve out new paths. Mamata Banerjee's decision to expel these two legislators serves as a stern warning to other dissenters, but it remains to be seen whether this action can prevent a potential major rebellion within the TMC.