Political tensions in West Bengal have intensified after senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Saumitra Khan made a striking claim suggesting a possible large-scale political shift within the Trinamool Congress (TMC). According to his statement, nearly 20 TMC Members of Parliament (MPs) and around 50 MLAs are allegedly in contact with the BJP and are prepared to switch sides if the party leadership approves their induction.

The claim has sparked fresh debate in West Bengal politics, where competition between the BJP and TMC has remained intense for years.

BJP Leader’s Claim on TMC MPs and MLAs

Saumitra Khan, a senior BJP leader and three-time Lok Sabha MP, told reporters that several TMC lawmakers are reportedly unhappy with their party leadership. He alleged that many of them are in continuous communication with BJP leaders.

He further stated that if political conditions allow, a significant number of TMC representatives could potentially join the BJP. According to him, this could even lead to a major political shift in the state’s parliamentary representation.

However, Khan did not provide names of any MPs or MLAs allegedly involved in such discussions.

Political Numbers and Anti-Defection Law Context

At present, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has:

• 29 MPs in the Lok Sabha
• 42 total seats from West Bengal

The BJP holds 12 seats, while the Congress has one.

Under India’s anti-defection law, at least two-thirds of members of a parliamentary party must switch together to avoid disqualification. In TMC’s case, this threshold would be approximately 19 to 20 MPs, making Khan’s claim numerically significant if true.

This legal framework plays a crucial role in determining whether such political shifts can happen without triggering disqualification proceedings.

TMC Strongly Rejects Allegations

The Trinamool Congress has outright rejected the BJP leader’s claims. Senior TMC MP Sougata Roy described the statement as “baseless” and “bogus,” asserting that no such political movement is taking place within the party.

TMC leaders have maintained that these claims are politically motivated and aimed at creating confusion among voters and party workers.

Background of Political Shifts in West Bengal

West Bengal has witnessed several instances of political realignment in recent years. Ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections, multiple TMC leaders had joined the BJP. However, after the TMC retained power under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, many of those leaders later returned to the party.

This history of switching allegiances has kept speculation alive about internal dissatisfaction within political parties in the state.

Current Political Climate in the State

The latest claims come amid reports of growing internal dissatisfaction within the TMC. Some party leaders and legislators have reportedly expressed concerns over internal functioning and decision-making.

At the same time, political rivalry between the BJP and TMC remains intense, with both parties actively trying to strengthen their organisational base in West Bengal.

Significance of the Claim

If such a large-scale defection were to occur, it could significantly alter the political balance of West Bengal’s representation in Parliament. However, without verified names or confirmations, the claim remains politically contested.

Experts note that such statements often form part of strategic political messaging aimed at influencing perception ahead of future electoral battles.

Conclusion

The claim made by BJP leader Saumitra Khan regarding possible defections from the TMC has added fresh heat to West Bengal politics. While he alleges that a large number of MPs and MLAs are in contact with the BJP, the TMC has firmly dismissed the allegations as unfounded.

With both parties maintaining strong positions and political tensions continuing, the situation reflects the ongoing volatility and competitiveness of West Bengal’s political landscape, especially between the BJP and the TMC led by Mamata Banerjee.

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