Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Sept 18) announced her support for Congress candidate Milan Pradhan in the Nandigram bypoll after her faction’s candidate, Sanchita Pradhan, withdrew from the contest. Banerjee said her camp would not field another candidate from Nandigram and described the decision as a show of solidarity with the INDIA alliance in its fight against the BJP.&nbsp;“We are ready to fight it out. I want the BJP to go from India. Our full solidarity is with the INDIA alliance,” Banerjee said at a press conference.&nbsp;The development came hours after the Election Commission of India stripped both rival TMC factions of the party’s name and the “Flowers and Grass” symbol. The Mamata faction was allotted the name “Mamata All India Trinamool Congress” and the “Football Player” symbol, while the Arup Roy-led faction was given the name “Democratic Trinamool Congress” and the “Envelope” symbol.&nbsp;Both factions will be treated as recognised political parties in West Bengal, Meghalaya and Tripura.<h3>Sanchita Pradhan withdraws</h3>Sanchita Pradhan reportedly decided to withdraw from the contest after meeting West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari at Nabanna. She was accompanied by her husband, Satyajit.&nbsp;Her withdrawal leaves the Mamata faction without a candidate in Nandigram. Congress has fielded Milan Pradhan, while the CPI has nominated Shanti Gopal Giri. The BJP’s candidate, Hasirani Rath, is also in the fray.&nbsp;The Mamata faction had announced Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) as its candidate for Nandigram last week. It had also nominated Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for Rejinagar. The bypolls to the two constituencies are scheduled for October 6, with counting of votes on October 9.&nbsp;The ECI’s interim order came a day after it barred the rival factions from using the TMC’s name and traditional symbol for the upcoming bypolls. The poll panel also directed both groups to submit alternative names and symbols.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-unblocks-news-sites-ahead-of-us-backed-transition-talks-1789731110424">Venezuela unblocks news sites ahead of US-backed transition talks</a><h3>Mamata calls it a ‘black day’</h3>Reacting to the freeze on the original party name and the “Flowers &amp; Grass” symbol, Banerjee expressed strong indignation over the decision. She said her faction did not disrespect the constitutional position but described the development as a dark moment in the country’s democratic history.&nbsp;“We don't disrespect the Constitutional Chair, but we feel today is a black day in our democratic history. What is happening in our country is very unfortunate, unconstitutional, illegal, undemocratic and a totally biased vendetta to satisfy the ego of a political party,” she said.&nbsp;Banerjee also warned those currently in power, claiming that the decision was the result of pre-planned political interference.&nbsp;“They had said beforehand, 'naam bhi rakhne doonga, nishaan bhi nahi rakhne doonga' (Neither let you keep the name nor the symbol). Who are these people? They are in power today; they might not be in power tomorrow. They should understand their limitations,” she added.

In a double shock to Mamata Banerjee, the Election Commission stripped her faction of the TMC name and “Flowers and Grass” symbol, while Sanchita Pradhan withdrew from the Nandigram bypoll after meeting West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday (Sept 18) announced her support for Congress candidate Milan Pradhan in the Nandigram bypoll after her faction’s candidate, Sanchita Pradhan, withdrew from the contest. Banerjee said her camp would not field another candidate from Nandigram and described the decision as a show of solidarity with the INDIA alliance in its fight against the BJP. “We are ready to fight it out. I want the BJP to go from India. Our full solidarity is with the INDIA alliance,” Banerjee said at a press conference. The development came hours after the Election Commission of India stripped both rival TMC factions of the party’s name and the “Flowers and Grass” symbol. The Mamata faction was allotted the name “Mamata All India Trinamool Congress” and the “Football Player” symbol, while the Arup Roy-led faction was given the name “Democratic Trinamool Congress” and the “Envelope” symbol. Both factions will be treated as recognised political parties in West Bengal, Meghalaya and Tripura. Sanchita Pradhan withdraws Sanchita Pradhan reportedly decided to withdraw from the contest after meeting West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari at Nabanna. She was accompanied by her husband, Satyajit. Her withdrawal leaves the Mamata faction without a candidate in Nandigram. Congress has fielded Milan Pradhan, while the CPI has nominated Shanti Gopal Giri. The BJP’s candidate, Hasirani Rath, is also in the fray. The Mamata faction had announced Sanchita Pradhan (Dey) as its candidate for Nandigram last week. It had also nominated Rabiul Alam Chowdhury for Rejinagar. The bypolls to the two constituencies are scheduled for October 6, with counting of votes on October 9. The ECI’s interim order came a day after it barred the rival factions from using the TMC’s name and traditional symbol for the upcoming bypolls. The poll panel also directed both groups to submit alternative names and symbols. Also Read: Venezuela unblocks news sites ahead of US-backed transition talks Mamata calls it a ‘black day’ Reacting to the freeze on the original party name and the “Flowers & Grass” symbol, Banerjee expressed strong indignation over the decision. She said her faction did not disrespect the constitutional position but described the development as a dark moment in the country’s democratic history. “We don't disrespect the Constitutional Chair, but we feel today is a black day in our democratic history. What is happening in our country is very unfortunate, unconstitutional, illegal, undemocratic and a totally biased vendetta to satisfy the ego of a political party,” she said. Banerjee also warned those currently in power, claiming that the decision was the result of pre-planned political interference. “They had said beforehand, 'naam bhi rakhne doonga, nishaan bhi nahi rakhne doonga' (Neither let you keep the name nor the symbol). Who are these people? They are in power today; they might not be in power tomorrow. They should understand their limitations,” she added.

In a double shock to Mamata Banerjee, the Election Commission stripped her faction of the TMC name and “Flowers and Grass” symbol, while Sanchita Pradhan withdrew from the Nandigram bypoll after meeting West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

'Ready to fight it out': Mamata backs Congress candidate in Nandigram after TMC nominee withdraws

The Election Commission of India is expected to decide the bitter contest for the Trinamool Congress name and its iconic ‘jora phool’ (twin-flower) symbol on Friday, sources said, after West Bengal Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee met the full bench in Delhi on Thursday.&nbsp;Both Ritabrata’s faction and the Mamata Banerjee-led group claim to be the authentic party ahead of the crucial Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nominations closed Wednesday and scrutiny took place on Thursday, leaving symbol allotment as the immediate flashpoint. Both sides have submitted Forms A and B, forcing the Commission to adjudicate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-plea-against-delhi-sir-on-priority-after-deletion-of-47-lakh-voters-1789652385281">Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Delhi SIR on priority after deletion of 47 lakh voters</a>&nbsp;Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ritabrata Banerjee said, “We met the Election Commission’s full bench today… We presented our arguments and addressed the queries raised regarding the by-elections in Rejinagar and Nandigram. Yesterday was the deadline for filing nominations for these by-elections, and scrutiny took place today, so the issue of symbol allotment is now pending. We have submitted Forms A and B; however, Forms A and B have also been submitted from Kalighat, so the Election Commission must make the final decision.”&nbsp;“We are representing the Trinamool Congress and have submitted Form A. The process now lies with the Election Commission and the Returning Officer, who will likely make a decision after consulting the Commission… The Election Commission is the apex body; we must have faith in it. We operate within a parliamentary democracy, so we have to trust the Election Commission,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-firm-linked-to-trump-s-sons-signs-mou-with-pakistan-army-gets-initial-order-1789648161978">US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order</a>&nbsp;Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025. Kalyan stressed that Mamata Banerjee founded the party and the symbol belongs to her side. He argued that any valid election must follow the constitutional hierarchy from booth level upwards and that the claimed 22 June session skipped all processes without notice to MPs. As a multi-state party, AITC requires proper all-India elections, he said, adding that court orders do not bind the Election Commission and the symbol can go only to the authorised faction.&nbsp;The Kalighat group also proposed that both sides summon their workers to Brigade Parade Ground so the Commission can see the real strength on the ground. They further urged the EC not to issue any interim order on matters already before the courts, noting one cannot approach both forums simultaneously.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-rallies-global-financial-institutions-for-op-economic-outcast-to-isolate-iran-1789588781387">US Treasury rallies global financial institutions for Op Economic Outcast to isolate Iran</a>&nbsp;The episode echoes the Shiv Sena split in Maharashtra, where the EC froze the original symbol and allotted temporary names and symbols to both factions. A similar outcome remains possible here.&nbsp;The Commission’s decision will determine which camp—or neither—gets to contest the bypolls under the familiar ‘Jora Phool’. The ruling carries high political stakes in West Bengal, testing organisational claims and potentially reshaping the opposition landscape ahead of larger electoral battles. Both sides have expressed faith in the EC as the final arbiter.

Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025.

The Election Commission of India is expected to decide the bitter contest for the Trinamool Congress name and its iconic ‘jora phool’ (twin-flower) symbol on Friday, sources said, after West Bengal Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee met the full bench in Delhi on Thursday. Both Ritabrata’s faction and the Mamata Banerjee-led group claim to be the authentic party ahead of the crucial Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls. Nominations closed Wednesday and scrutiny took place on Thursday, leaving symbol allotment as the immediate flashpoint. Both sides have submitted Forms A and B, forcing the Commission to adjudicate. Also Read: Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Delhi SIR on priority after deletion of 47 lakh voters Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ritabrata Banerjee said, “We met the Election Commission’s full bench today… We presented our arguments and addressed the queries raised regarding the by-elections in Rejinagar and Nandigram. Yesterday was the deadline for filing nominations for these by-elections, and scrutiny took place today, so the issue of symbol allotment is now pending. We have submitted Forms A and B; however, Forms A and B have also been submitted from Kalighat, so the Election Commission must make the final decision.” “We are representing the Trinamool Congress and have submitted Form A. The process now lies with the Election Commission and the Returning Officer, who will likely make a decision after consulting the Commission… The Election Commission is the apex body; we must have faith in it. We operate within a parliamentary democracy, so we have to trust the Election Commission,” he added. Also Read: US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025. Kalyan stressed that Mamata Banerjee founded the party and the symbol belongs to her side. He argued that any valid election must follow the constitutional hierarchy from booth level upwards and that the claimed 22 June session skipped all processes without notice to MPs. As a multi-state party, AITC requires proper all-India elections, he said, adding that court orders do not bind the Election Commission and the symbol can go only to the authorised faction. The Kalighat group also proposed that both sides summon their workers to Brigade Parade Ground so the Commission can see the real strength on the ground. They further urged the EC not to issue any interim order on matters already before the courts, noting one cannot approach both forums simultaneously. Also Read: US Treasury rallies global financial institutions for Op Economic Outcast to isolate Iran The episode echoes the Shiv Sena split in Maharashtra, where the EC froze the original symbol and allotted temporary names and symbols to both factions. A similar outcome remains possible here. The Commission’s decision will determine which camp—or neither—gets to contest the bypolls under the familiar ‘Jora Phool’. The ruling carries high political stakes in West Bengal, testing organisational claims and potentially reshaping the opposition landscape ahead of larger electoral battles. Both sides have expressed faith in the EC as the final arbiter.

Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025.

EC decision on TMC symbol row likely on Friday as factions battle for ‘jora phool’

Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday (July 4) has issued a statement after rebel MPs announced that they “took control” of the party headquarters. Banerjee alleged they the rebel MPs broke away under pressure but she won't bow in front of BJP. Daring the rebels, she said they should join the saffron party and end the facade of real TMC debate. She said that she won't stop and they will have to “kill” her to stop her.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ritabrata-led-tmc-faction-takes-control-over-party-hq-in-kolkata-as-row-with-mamata-group-escalates-1783099229745">Ritabrata-led TMC faction ‘takes control over’ party HQ in Kolkata as row with Mamata group escalates</a>&nbsp;"I dare the treacherous and ungrateful traitors abandoning the party to directly join the BJP and take me on if you have the courage, instead of playing this dishonest BJP-sponsored game," Banerjee said. She also announced that she will assume the role of the party’s state unit president after Chandrima Bhattacharya resigend and joined the rebels. The former CM also named Kunal Ghosh and Madan Mitra as the party's general secretaries. Mamata said she knew about it. " She had already informed me of the actual situation - that she would resign - because her son had previously joined hands with an anti-Trinamool faction," she said. "That is something she (Chandrima Banerjee) is free to do, but I will not join hands with them," she added. She added that the party office at her house would serve as the main Trinamool office.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mamata-aide-resigns-as-tmc-state-prez-mamata-set-to-assume-key-post-1783182441579/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/mamata-aide-resigns-as-tmc-state-prez-mamata-set-to-assume-key-post-1783182441579/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The Trinamool Congress chief claimed that the rebels had parted ways because of pressure. "But I will not bow down before the BJP, and my party will not bow down before any pressure," she added. The Election Commission has asked the rival factions of the Trinamool Congress to submit their claims and counterclaims by 5.30 pm on July 6.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-mp-mahua-moitra-shares-video-of-egg-attack-on-her-outside-party-office-1782920567359">TMC MP Mahua Moitra shares video of egg attack on her outside party office</a>

Amid a rebellion within the Trinamool Congress, Mamata Banerjee announced she will take charge as the party's West Bengal president, named a new leadership team, and shifted the party office to her residence. The Election Commission has asked both TMC factions to submit their claims by July 6

Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday (July 4) has issued a statement after rebel MPs announced that they “took control” of the party headquarters. Banerjee alleged they the rebel MPs broke away under pressure but she won't bow in front of BJP. Daring the rebels, she said they should join the saffron party and end the facade of real TMC debate. She said that she won't stop and they will have to “kill” her to stop her. Also Read: Ritabrata-led TMC faction ‘takes control over’ party HQ in Kolkata as row with Mamata group escalates "I dare the treacherous and ungrateful traitors abandoning the party to directly join the BJP and take me on if you have the courage, instead of playing this dishonest BJP-sponsored game," Banerjee said. She also announced that she will assume the role of the party’s state unit president after Chandrima Bhattacharya resigend and joined the rebels. The former CM also named Kunal Ghosh and Madan Mitra as the party's general secretaries. Mamata said she knew about it. " She had already informed me of the actual situation - that she would resign - because her son had previously joined hands with an anti-Trinamool faction," she said. "That is something she (Chandrima Banerjee) is free to do, but I will not join hands with them," she added. She added that the party office at her house would serve as the main Trinamool office. https://www.wionews.com/videos/mamata-aide-resigns-as-tmc-state-prez-mamata-set-to-assume-key-post-1783182441579/embed The Trinamool Congress chief claimed that the rebels had parted ways because of pressure. "But I will not bow down before the BJP, and my party will not bow down before any pressure," she added. The Election Commission has asked the rival factions of the Trinamool Congress to submit their claims and counterclaims by 5.30 pm on July 6. Also Read: TMC MP Mahua Moitra shares video of egg attack on her outside party office

Amid a rebellion within the Trinamool Congress, Mamata Banerjee announced she will take charge as the party's West Bengal president, named a new leadership team, and shifted the party office to her residence. The Election Commission has asked both TMC factions to submit their claims by July 6

Mamata Banerjee issues 'kill me' dare after TMC rebels take over party office: 'Join BJP and...'

The crack in Trinamool Congress has reached Election Commission's doors as both the factions approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) to claim the election symbol - two flowers. Both camps are claiming to represent the ‘real’ Trinamool Congress and now want the official symbol to be allotted to them. First, rebel MLAs visited the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer and submitted a letter seeking recognition as the official party and rights over the “jora ghash phool" or twin-flower election symbol. In response, Mamata Banerjee submitted a separate list to the Election Commission, asserting that her faction remains the legitimate TMC. This is similar to political battle in Maharashtra involving the Shiv Sena.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-rebel-faction-ousts-mamata-banerjee-appoints-arup-roy-as-chairperson-1782163374556">TMC rebel faction ousts Mamata Banerjee, appoints Arup Roy as chairperson</a><h2>What's happening in TMC?</h2>The latest move came after rebel camp removed Mamata Banerjee as the party chairperson and appointed a new national working committee. Claiming the support of 65 of the party’s 80 legislators, the group voted by voice vote to remove Mamata Banerjee from the post of chairperson.The legislators elected Howrah Central MLA Arup Roy as the new party chief. Roy served as a minister in the Trinamool Congress government from 2011 to 2026. In Mamata's list to EC, she is the chairperson, Abhishek Banerjee is national general secretary and Lok Sabha leader, Derek O’Brien and Dola Sen are joint secretaries, Subhashish Chakraborty is mentioned as treasurer and Sovondeb Chatterjee as leader in the Assembly. The crack in TMC was out in open after the party lost the election. Ritabrata claimed that he and other members of the party were not contacted in selection process of the Leader of Assembly. Ritabrata was expelled from the party, but he and other TMC leaders claimed that they are the “real TMC.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-led-tmc-faction-hits-back-expels-firhad-hakim-aroop-biswas-and-6-others-over-anti-party-activities-1782221480899">Mamata-led TMC faction hits back, expels Firhad Hakim, Aroop Roy and 6 others over anti-party activities</a><h2>What happened during Shiv Sena's case?</h2>In February 2023, the ECI under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 recognized the faction led by then Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as the "real" Shiv Sena and officially allotted them the party name and the "Bow and Arrow" symbol. The ECI relied heavily on the numerical strength of elected representatives (legislative majority), noting that Shinde's faction commanded the support of roughly 76 per cent of the undivided Shiv Sena's MLAs and MPs.&nbsp;<h2>How it applies on TMC?</h2>In TMC's case, the legal precedents set in the Shiv Sena case applies because it provides a strict legal roadmap for how party control, symbols, and MLA disqualifications must be decided under Indian constitutional law. If a rival faction within the TMC claims to be the "real" party, the battle will be governed by the following three legal boundaries established by the SC and EC. The ECI can decide who gets the TMC name and "Twin Flowers" symbol while the Speaker simultaneously decides whether the rebel MLAs should be disqualified. The ECI looks at the majority of elected representatives (MLAs and MPs). The rebels hold a strong position here, claiming the support of 65 out of 80 TMC MLAs in West Bengal and 20 out of 28 Lok Sabha MPs.

The power struggle within the Trinamool Congress has escalated, with rival factions led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee submitting competing leadership lists to the Election Commission. Both camps are claiming control of the party, its election symbol and organisational structure.


The crack in Trinamool Congress has reached Election Commission's doors as both the factions approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) to claim the election symbol - two flowers. Both camps are claiming to represent the ‘real’ Trinamool Congress and now want the official symbol to be allotted to them. First, rebel MLAs visited the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer and submitted a letter seeking recognition as the official party and rights over the “jora ghash phool" or twin-flower election symbol. In response, Mamata Banerjee submitted a separate list to the Election Commission, asserting that her faction remains the legitimate TMC. This is similar to political battle in Maharashtra involving the Shiv Sena. Also Read: TMC rebel faction ousts Mamata Banerjee, appoints Arup Roy as chairperson What's happening in TMC? The latest move came after rebel camp removed Mamata Banerjee as the party chairperson and appointed a new national working committee. Claiming the support of 65 of the party’s 80 legislators, the group voted by voice vote to remove Mamata Banerjee from the post of chairperson.The legislators elected Howrah Central MLA Arup Roy as the new party chief. Roy served as a minister in the Trinamool Congress government from 2011 to 2026. In Mamata's list to EC, she is the chairperson, Abhishek Banerjee is national general secretary and Lok Sabha leader, Derek O’Brien and Dola Sen are joint secretaries, Subhashish Chakraborty is mentioned as treasurer and Sovondeb Chatterjee as leader in the Assembly. The crack in TMC was out in open after the party lost the election. Ritabrata claimed that he and other members of the party were not contacted in selection process of the Leader of Assembly. Ritabrata was expelled from the party, but he and other TMC leaders claimed that they are the “real TMC.” Also Read: Mamata-led TMC faction hits back, expels Firhad Hakim, Aroop Roy and 6 others over anti-party activities What happened during Shiv Sena's case? In February 2023, the ECI under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 recognized the faction led by then Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as the "real" Shiv Sena and officially allotted them the party name and the "Bow and Arrow" symbol. The ECI relied heavily on the numerical strength of elected representatives (legislative majority), noting that Shinde's faction commanded the support of roughly 76 per cent of the undivided Shiv Sena's MLAs and MPs. How it applies on TMC? In TMC's case, the legal precedents set in the Shiv Sena case applies because it provides a strict legal roadmap for how party control, symbols, and MLA disqualifications must be decided under Indian constitutional law. If a rival faction within the TMC claims to be the "real" party, the battle will be governed by the following three legal boundaries established by the SC and EC. The ECI can decide who gets the TMC name and "Twin Flowers" symbol while the Speaker simultaneously decides whether the rebel MLAs should be disqualified. The ECI looks at the majority of elected representatives (MLAs and MPs). The rebels hold a strong position here, claiming the support of 65 out of 80 TMC MLAs in West Bengal and 20 out of 28 Lok Sabha MPs.

The power struggle within the Trinamool Congress has escalated, with rival factions led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee submitting competing leadership lists to the Election Commission. Both camps are claiming control of the party, its election symbol and organisational structure.

Who will get TMC's twin-flower election symbol? Shiv Sena's case offers clues | WION Decodes

The Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday expelled eight leaders, including former Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim, Javed Ahmed Khan, Sabina Yasmin, Arup Roy, Rathin Ghosh, Biplab Mitra, Aroop Biswas and Snehasis Chakraborty. The expulsions came a day after the dissident camp “ousted” the former West Bengal chief minister as the party’s chairperson and suspended her nephew Abhishek Banerjee. The leaders expelled on Tuesday are in the rebel camp led by Ritabrata Banerjee.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the AITC had issued show-cause notices to these leaders over “anti-party” activities.Mamata’s faction has also submitted a list to the Election Commission of India (ECI), naming her as the Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). The document also names Subrata Bakshi as vice president; Abhishek Banerjee as national general secretary and Lok Sabha leader, Derek O’Brien as joint secretary and Rajya Sabha leader, Dola Sen as joint secretary; and Subhasish Chakraborty as treasurer.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-india-bound-ships-carrying-crude-lpg-fertilisers-crossed-hormuz-since-us-iran-mou-signing-10-still-in-gulf-mea-1782217692758">11 India-bound ships carrying crude, LPG, fertilisers crossed Hormuz since US-Iran MoU signing; 10 still in Gulf: MEA</a>&nbsp;The rebel TMC faction, led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee, had on Monday announced the removal of Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson and the suspension of Abhishek Banerjee, while asserting that it is the “real Trinamool” and preparing to approach the Election Commission (EC) to stake its claim.&nbsp;“It is not about what is real or not real. We are TMC and will inform the Election Commission about today’s special session proceedings,” he said.&nbsp;“We have functioned and convened this special session as per the norms. It is for the EC to decide what is wrong or right,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/14-students-killed-in-fire-at-animation-centre-in-lucknow-many-jump-from-1st-floor-1782130828955">15 killed in fire at animation centre in Lucknow; many jump off 1st floor</a>&nbsp;The TMC rebels also constituted a 30-member National Working Committee (NWC). Ritabrita reiterated that he wants Mamata Banerjee to play the role of mentor in the party. “We have repeatedly stated our stance regarding Mamata Banerjee’s role within the TMC. We want ‘Didi’ to assume the responsibility of a mentor and guide us,” Ritabrata said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cred-founder-kunal-shah-becomes-global-ceo-of-whatsapp-meta-invests-900-million-in-fintech-startup-1782137297377">CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup</a>&nbsp;The dissident camp elected MLA Arup Roy as the new chairperson of the party and appointed former minister Aroop Biswas and MLAs Firhad Hakim, Rathin Ghosh and Sabina Yasmin as vice-chairpersons.&nbsp;Ritabrata further said that district presidents and committees would also be constituted in the coming days.&nbsp;The dissidents claim support of at least 60 of TMC’s 80 legislators, while 20 of the party’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs have already broken away and merged with the little-known Nationalist Citizens’ Party of India.

The rebel TMC faction, led by LoP Ritabrata Banerjee, had on Monday announced the removal of Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson and the suspension of Abhishek Banerjee while asserting that it is the “real Trinamool” and preparing to approach the Election Commission to stake its claim.

The Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday expelled eight leaders, including former Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim, Javed Ahmed Khan, Sabina Yasmin, Arup Roy, Rathin Ghosh, Biplab Mitra, Aroop Biswas and Snehasis Chakraborty. The expulsions came a day after the dissident camp “ousted” the former West Bengal chief minister as the party’s chairperson and suspended her nephew Abhishek Banerjee. The leaders expelled on Tuesday are in the rebel camp led by Ritabrata Banerjee. Earlier in the day, the AITC had issued show-cause notices to these leaders over “anti-party” activities. Mamata’s faction has also submitted a list to the Election Commission of India (ECI), naming her as the Chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). The document also names Subrata Bakshi as vice president; Abhishek Banerjee as national general secretary and Lok Sabha leader, Derek O’Brien as joint secretary and Rajya Sabha leader, Dola Sen as joint secretary; and Subhasish Chakraborty as treasurer. Also Read: 11 India-bound ships carrying crude, LPG, fertilisers crossed Hormuz since US-Iran MoU signing; 10 still in Gulf: MEA The rebel TMC faction, led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee, had on Monday announced the removal of Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson and the suspension of Abhishek Banerjee, while asserting that it is the “real Trinamool” and preparing to approach the Election Commission (EC) to stake its claim. “It is not about what is real or not real. We are TMC and will inform the Election Commission about today’s special session proceedings,” he said. “We have functioned and convened this special session as per the norms. It is for the EC to decide what is wrong or right,” he added. Also Read: 15 killed in fire at animation centre in Lucknow; many jump off 1st floor The TMC rebels also constituted a 30-member National Working Committee (NWC). Ritabrita reiterated that he wants Mamata Banerjee to play the role of mentor in the party. “We have repeatedly stated our stance regarding Mamata Banerjee’s role within the TMC. We want ‘Didi’ to assume the responsibility of a mentor and guide us,” Ritabrata said. Also Read: CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup The dissident camp elected MLA Arup Roy as the new chairperson of the party and appointed former minister Aroop Biswas and MLAs Firhad Hakim, Rathin Ghosh and Sabina Yasmin as vice-chairpersons. Ritabrata further said that district presidents and committees would also be constituted in the coming days. The dissidents claim support of at least 60 of TMC’s 80 legislators, while 20 of the party’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs have already broken away and merged with the little-known Nationalist Citizens’ Party of India.

The rebel TMC faction, led by LoP Ritabrata Banerjee, had on Monday announced the removal of Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson and the suspension of Abhishek Banerjee while asserting that it is the “real Trinamool” and preparing to approach the Election Commission to stake its claim.

Mamata-led TMC faction hits back, expels Firhad Hakim, Aroop Roy and 6 others over anti-party activities

The political crisis within the Trinamool Congress deepened on Monday after the party's rebel faction, led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee, announced senior MLA Arup Roy as the chairperson of what it described as the "real" Trinamool Congress.&nbsp;With the move, the dissident group claimed that Mamata Banerjee had been removed as the party's chairperson. However, leaders loyal to Mamata insisted that she continue to head the organisation.&nbsp;Addressing a press conference, Ritabrata said: “We have held a special session today (Monday), and delegates have elected the national working committee. Arup Roy, one of the senior party leaders, has been elected as chairperson. He was with the party from the beginning; 29 other members have been elected to the committee.”&nbsp;Speaking about Mamata Banerjee, he added: “We want Didi (Mamata Banerjee) to be our chief adviser.”&nbsp;“We have done this following the rules and party constitution. We will inform the Election Commission about our decision. We are the Trinamool Congress. We will shortly set up a state committee, district committees, spokesperson and frontal organisations,” he said.Ritabrata also questioned the legitimacy of the working committee backed by Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;“What was being shown as the national working committee (by Mamata loyalists) is vague. Those whose names were announced resigned the next day. We have followed all rules and regulations,” he said.&nbsp;Asked about Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee, Ritabrata said, “His name was neither mentioned nor discussed.&nbsp;After being named chairperson, Arup Roy appealed for unity within the party.&nbsp;“We will all work together. These are tough times for the party, and we need to stand with our workers,” Roy said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-in-montreal-s-jewish-neighbourhood-leaves-3-dead-including-gunman-1782156068566">Shooting in Montreal's Jewish neighbourhood leaves 3 dead, including gunman</a>&nbsp;The announcement was immediately rejected by leaders aligned with Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;Former minister Madan Mitra said the rebel group had no authority to alter the party's leadership structure.&nbsp;“There is a party constitution, and Mamata Banerjee is the chairperson of the party. This (new party structure) simply cannot be done. They (the rebel group) cannot do this,” Mitra said.&nbsp;During the special session, the rebel camp appointed Aroop Biswas, Javed Khan, Rathin Ghosh and former Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim as vice presidents. Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha, Ritabrata Banerjee and Sabina Yasmin were named general secretaries.&nbsp;The rebellion began on June 3 when around 60 of the party's 80 MLAs revolted against the leadership and selected Ritabrata Banerjee as the new Leader of Opposition.&nbsp;Soon afterwards, a group of TMC Lok Sabha MPs led by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar also broke ranks. The MPs claim to have the support of 20 members and have approached the Speaker seeking a merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India.

The rebel faction appointed Aroop Biswas, Javed Khan, Rathin Ghosh and Firhad Hakim as vice presidents, while Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha, Ritabrata Banerjee and Sabina Yasmin were named general secretaries.

The political crisis within the Trinamool Congress deepened on Monday after the party's rebel faction, led by Leader of the Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee, announced senior MLA Arup Roy as the chairperson of what it described as the "real" Trinamool Congress. With the move, the dissident group claimed that Mamata Banerjee had been removed as the party's chairperson. However, leaders loyal to Mamata insisted that she continue to head the organisation. Addressing a press conference, Ritabrata said: “We have held a special session today (Monday), and delegates have elected the national working committee. Arup Roy, one of the senior party leaders, has been elected as chairperson. He was with the party from the beginning; 29 other members have been elected to the committee.” Speaking about Mamata Banerjee, he added: “We want Didi (Mamata Banerjee) to be our chief adviser.” “We have done this following the rules and party constitution. We will inform the Election Commission about our decision. We are the Trinamool Congress. We will shortly set up a state committee, district committees, spokesperson and frontal organisations,” he said. Ritabrata also questioned the legitimacy of the working committee backed by Mamata Banerjee. “What was being shown as the national working committee (by Mamata loyalists) is vague. Those whose names were announced resigned the next day. We have followed all rules and regulations,” he said. Asked about Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee, Ritabrata said, “His name was neither mentioned nor discussed. After being named chairperson, Arup Roy appealed for unity within the party. “We will all work together. These are tough times for the party, and we need to stand with our workers,” Roy said. Also Read: Shooting in Montreal's Jewish neighbourhood leaves 3 dead, including gunman The announcement was immediately rejected by leaders aligned with Mamata Banerjee. Former minister Madan Mitra said the rebel group had no authority to alter the party's leadership structure. “There is a party constitution, and Mamata Banerjee is the chairperson of the party. This (new party structure) simply cannot be done. They (the rebel group) cannot do this,” Mitra said. During the special session, the rebel camp appointed Aroop Biswas, Javed Khan, Rathin Ghosh and former Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim as vice presidents. Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha, Ritabrata Banerjee and Sabina Yasmin were named general secretaries. The rebellion began on June 3 when around 60 of the party's 80 MLAs revolted against the leadership and selected Ritabrata Banerjee as the new Leader of Opposition. Soon afterwards, a group of TMC Lok Sabha MPs led by Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar also broke ranks. The MPs claim to have the support of 20 members and have approached the Speaker seeking a merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India.

The rebel faction appointed Aroop Biswas, Javed Khan, Rathin Ghosh and Firhad Hakim as vice presidents, while Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha, Ritabrata Banerjee and Sabina Yasmin were named general secretaries.

TMC rebel faction ousts Mamata Banerjee, appoints Arup Roy as chairperson

A dramatic political development has emerged in West Bengal, with reports suggesting that 20 Trinamool Congress MPs have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking to join the ruling NDA. The move could reshape political equations in both West Bengal and New Delhi. This episode analyzes the potential fallout and what it means for India's political landscape.

20 TMC MPs Write Letter To Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Seeking To Join Ruling NDA

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TMC rebel faction ousts Mamata Banerjee, appoints Arup Roy as chairperson

20 TMC MPs Write Letter To Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Seeking To Join Ruling NDA