West Bengal CM Sets 15-Day Ultimatum for Defecting Party Members

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has given party members who have switched allegiances a fortnight to return, or face permanent exclusion from the Trinamool Congress. The ultimatum targets MLAs and MPs who have quit the party in recent times, marking an intensified response to defections that have weakened the regional outfit's legislative strength.

Banerjee characterised the departing legislators as "traitors," expressing frustration over the party's investment in getting them elected. Her remarks underscore growing tensions within the Trinamool Congress, which has faced successive defections to rival political organisations, particularly ahead of state and national elections.

The 15-day window represents a critical juncture for the party's internal cohesion. Members who return within the specified period will be welcomed back without penalty, according to Banerjee's statement. Those who remain absent beyond the deadline will be considered permanently severed from the organisation.

The development reflects broader challenges facing regional parties in India as legislators frequently switch sides to align with perceived electoral advantages or factional interests. For the Trinamool Congress, the defections have raised questions about party discipline and loyalty at a time when maintaining legislative numbers remains strategically important.