Politics · India Bureau
Trinamool rebel claims mass BJP defection; party distances itself
A breakaway Trinamool Congress MP alleged that 17 of 20 NCPI legislators plan to join the BJP, though both the ruling party and fellow rebels have denied the claim.
LSN India ·
A rebel Trinamool Congress lawmaker claimed on Tuesday that the vast majority of NCPI (likely referring to a regional political grouping) legislators intend to switch allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party, triggering denials from multiple quarters.
The assertion by the dissident MP came amid ongoing political turbulence within West Bengal's ruling coalition. The specific figures cited—17 out of 20 legislators—would represent a substantial defection if realized, though neither the BJP nor fellow rebel members corroborated the account.
The BJP moved swiftly to disassociate itself from the claims. Samik Bhattacharya, the party's West Bengal unit chief, stated that the BJP would not mechanically absorb politicians merely seeking to join its ranks, underscoring the party's selective approach to recruitment.
The allegation underscores simmering internal tensions within the Trinamool Congress as the party navigates factional divisions. However, without confirmation from the implicated lawmakers or party officials, the claim remains unverified and politically contentious.