TMC Leader Anubrata Mondal Joins Rebel Faction, Shakes Up West Bengal Politics
In a significant political shift, Anubrata Mondal, a senior leader of the Trinamool Congress, has joined a rebel faction, raising questions about the future of the party in West Bengal. This unexpected move, announced by opposition leader Ritabrata Banerjee, could reshape the political dynamics in Birbhum, where Mondal has been a key figure. His long-standing loyalty to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee makes this defection particularly noteworthy. As the situation unfolds, the implications for TMC and its leadership are profound. Read on to explore the details of this political upheaval.
| Jul 11, 2026, 19:22 IST
Significant Shift in TMC Dynamics
In a surprising turn of events for the Trinamool Congress (TMC), senior leader Anubrata Mondal, a prominent figure from Birbhum, has defected to a rebel faction. This marks a crucial political development in West Bengal. The announcement of Mondal's switch was made by opposition leader Ritabrata Banerjee, who has appointed him as the district president of the rebel group in Birbhum. This move is expected to alter the political landscape in the district, where Mondal has long been regarded as one of TMC's most influential leaders.
Catalyst for Change
Reports indicate that the situation escalated on Friday when former Deputy Speaker of West Bengal, Ashish Bandyopadhyay, who had already joined the Ritabrata faction, met with the opposition leader in the assembly. Sources suggest that a member of the rebel faction later reached out to Mondal to discuss his joining and the proposed organizational role. It is believed that Mondal has agreed to this proposal.
Why Did Anubrata Mondal Leave Mamata Banerjee?
For years, Anubrata Mondal has been seen as one of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's closest political allies and a key leader within the TMC in Birbhum. Banerjee has consistently stood by him during political controversies and legal challenges, publicly defending him on numerous occasions. Mondal has also remained loyal to TMC leadership for many years, often reiterating that Mamata Banerjee is the undisputed face of the party.