Mamata Banerjee challenges TMC rebels: 'Join BJP if you want'
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday sent a clear message to rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, daring them to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) if they are dissatisfied with the party. Speaking at a party meeting in Kolkata, Banerjee said, 'I challenge them to join BJP. If they think they will get more benefits there, they are free to go.'
The remarks come amid growing unrest within the TMC following the party's performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP made significant inroads in West Bengal. A number of TMC leaders have been accused of working against the party's interests, with several switching allegiances to the BJP in recent months.
Banerjee's statement is seen as an attempt to consolidate her position within the party and deter further defections. Political analysts note that the challenge is also a strategic move to test the loyalty of party workers. 'By issuing a public challenge, Mamata is forcing the rebels to show their hand,' said Professor Anirban Ganguly, a political commentator at the University of Calcutta. 'This could either solidify her leadership or accelerate a split.'
The TMC has faced internal dissent since the 2021 assembly elections, with factions emerging in several districts. Banerjee has previously been lenient with dissenters, but this time her tone suggests a harder stance. 'The party cannot function if everyone is pulling in different directions,' she added. 'Those who are not committed should leave.'
The BJP has welcomed the challenge, with state party president Sukanta Majumdar saying, 'We welcome anyone who wants to join us for the development of West Bengal.' The opposition Congress criticised Banerjee's approach, calling it 'authoritarian' and 'undemocratic'.
The development has sparked speculation about a possible exodus from the TMC in the coming weeks. However, party insiders say that most rebels are unlikely to risk leaving the TMC due to the strong grassroots support for Banerjee.
