Political Turmoil in West Bengal: TMC Faces Internal Strife Amid BJP Claims
Political Unrest in West Bengal
West Bengal's political landscape is once again showing signs of upheaval. On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, BJP MP Soumitra Khan made a shocking assertion, claiming that nearly 50 legislators and 20 MPs from the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, are deeply dissatisfied with the party leadership. According to Khan, if the BJP's central leadership gives the green light, these leaders are fully prepared to defect to the BJP.
Khan issued a stern warning, stating, "If the BJP leadership permits, TMC will cease to exist as a political force. Everyone is eager to leave the party."
Attacks on TMC Leadership
The BJP leader also launched a fierce attack on TMC's national general secretary, Abhishek Banerjee, labeling him as "sinful" and asserting that "sinners must face justice." Khan remarked, "A bulldozer is currently stationed outside his house. In 2021, he had the homes of BJP workers demolished. Sinners should immediately reap the consequences of their actions and face their fate."
TMC's Response to Allegations
In response to Khan's claims, TMC MP Sougata Roy dismissed the statements as baseless, asserting, "This is entirely false. Soumitra Khan and the BJP are spreading misinformation. Nothing of this sort is going to happen."
Growing Turmoil Within TMC
Khan's remarks come amid increasing unrest within the ruling All India Trinamool Congress following recent electoral setbacks in West Bengal. The party is grappling with internal dissent, resignations from municipal bodies, and allegations of corruption involving several leaders.
Political Tensions Escalate
The situation intensified when Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, an MP from Barasat, participated in a meeting led by opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari alongside several TMC legislators. Recently, Kakoli was removed from her position as the chief whip of TMC in the Lok Sabha and subsequently received 'Y' category security from the central government, fueling further political speculation.
Resignations and Political Instability
In recent days, nearly 100 councilors from various municipalities have resigned, leading to instability in areas still largely controlled by TMC. Reports suggest that several municipal boards may collapse ahead of the upcoming municipal elections next year.
Mayor's Potential Resignation
Reports indicate that Kolkata's mayor, Firhad Hakim, has also expressed a desire to resign, although no official confirmation has been made. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently urged councilors not to resign amid the escalating crisis.
Increased Pressure from Resignations and Arrests
Political turmoil has intensified since the BJP-led state administration, under Suvendu Adhikari, indicated that past activities of municipal bodies would be investigated, with actions taken wherever irregularities are found.
Minister's Statement on Municipal Administrators
Minister of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Agnimitra Paul, stated that administrators are being appointed in municipalities where councilors have ceased to attend their offices.
Concerns Over Corruption and Arrests
Numerous arrests related to alleged corruption and extortion have heightened concerns within the party. Last week, three councilors were arrested on charges of extortion and intimidation.
Tragic Death Raises Alarm
The recent death of influential TMC councilor Sanjay Das in South Dumdum has further escalated anxiety. Das, known to be close to TMC leader Debraj Chakraborty and facing allegations of corruption and extortion, was found hanging. Police have registered a case of unnatural death.
Investigations into Recruitment Irregularities
Chakraborty, who is married to former TMC MLA Aditi Munshi, is under investigation by central agencies for alleged irregularities in municipal recruitment. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has already arrested former TMC minister Sujit Bose in this case.
Impact of Mass Resignations on Municipalities
Municipalities in North 24 Parganas and surrounding industrial areas have been most affected by the resignations. In the Bhatpara municipality, 30 out of 35 councilors, including chairperson Reba Raha, have resigned. In the neighboring Halisahar municipality, 16 out of 23 councilors have left their posts, while 14 councilors from Kanchrapara municipality have also resigned.
Councilor's Statement on Resignation
Debjyoti Ghosh, the vice-chairman of Bhatpara municipality, stated that they had "no option but to resign," alleging that staff were not receiving salaries and that TMC leadership had failed to provide guidance or support.
Political Speculation Ahead of 2024 Elections
West Bengal has 42 Lok Sabha seats. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, TMC won 29 seats, while the BJP secured 12, and Congress won one. Khan's claim that 20 MPs were ready to switch parties has sparked new political speculation, as at least 20 MPs would be needed to avoid disqualification under anti-defection provisions.