Senior legislator Madan Mitra, who joined the rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee on Wednesday, dismissed allegations that his decision to leave the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was driven by fear of central agencies, stressing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) played no role in his political shift."The ED didn't scare us. They didn't call or threaten us... Why mix politics with the ED? My decision was purely based on the political landscape," Mitra said, as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;Mitra, who was considered one of the closest aides of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and had been with the TMC since its inception in 1998, joined the rebel faction in the Assembly just a day after the Enforcement Directorate sent summons to his wife and two sons.&nbsp;The Kamarhati MLA attributed his decision to quit the TMC to disillusionment with the party leadership's ability to take on the ruling BJP and hailed the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.&nbsp;“From this moment I resign from the national working committee, the post of chief whip in the assembly and the post of general secretary of Mamata Banerjee’s TMC. I was in the TMC, and I remain there. I am only changing rooms,” Mitra said after joining the rebel group.&nbsp;"I felt that to defeat the BJP, we needed to put in more effort than the way the Trinamool was operating from Kalighat. I wanted to support this new, assertive Trinamool... She chased me away. So I left too," Mitra stated, in an apparent reference to TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;"There is no doubt that considering Suvendu Adhikari's strength and vigour at his age, it would be very difficult to find a leader across the country capable of taking him on," Mitra added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/andy-burnham-set-to-become-uk-pm-replacing-starmer-as-britain-gets-its-seventh-premier-in-a-decade-1784287511050">Andy Burnham set to become UK PM, replacing Starmer as Britain gets its seventh premier in a decade</a><h2>TMC grapples with a fresh wave of defections after poll rout</h2>The TMC has witnessed multiple defections of its MPs and MLAs following its disastrous showing in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, which ended its 15-year rule in the state. The BJP secured a landslide victory, winning 208 of the 294 Assembly seats.&nbsp;With Mitra's defection, the rebel faction now has 60 of the TMC's original 80 MLAs, while the Mamata Banerjee faction is left with 20. The rebel camp, which was formed after 58 MLAs signed a letter to the Speaker, however, claims to have the support of at least 65 legislators but has not published their names so far.&nbsp;Meanwhile, reacting to the defections, Mamata Banerjee asked leaders planning to quit the party to do so before the TMC's July 21 Martyrs' Day rally, maintaining that the departures would not weaken the organisation.&nbsp;Her remarks came hours after TMC Rajya Sabha MP and actor Rukmini Mallick, popularly known as Koel Mallick, resigned and met Union Minister Bhupender Yadav.&nbsp;"Today, I saw that another MP, who is also a respected and talented film artist, met a BJP leader and resigned. I respect her as an artist. For everyone's information, she had already sent her resignation by email, and I thank her for personally submitting it today," Banerjee said.

Senior TMC leader Madan Mitra dismissed allegations that fear of the Enforcement Directorate prompted his exit, saying political differences and dissatisfaction with the party's leadership led him to join the Ritabrata Banerjee-led rebel faction.

Senior legislator Madan Mitra, who joined the rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee on Wednesday, dismissed allegations that his decision to leave the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was driven by fear of central agencies, stressing that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) played no role in his political shift. "The ED didn't scare us. They didn't call or threaten us... Why mix politics with the ED? My decision was purely based on the political landscape," Mitra said, as quoted by ANI. Mitra, who was considered one of the closest aides of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and had been with the TMC since its inception in 1998, joined the rebel faction in the Assembly just a day after the Enforcement Directorate sent summons to his wife and two sons. The Kamarhati MLA attributed his decision to quit the TMC to disillusionment with the party leadership's ability to take on the ruling BJP and hailed the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. “From this moment I resign from the national working committee, the post of chief whip in the assembly and the post of general secretary of Mamata Banerjee’s TMC. I was in the TMC, and I remain there. I am only changing rooms,” Mitra said after joining the rebel group. "I felt that to defeat the BJP, we needed to put in more effort than the way the Trinamool was operating from Kalighat. I wanted to support this new, assertive Trinamool... She chased me away. So I left too," Mitra stated, in an apparent reference to TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee. "There is no doubt that considering Suvendu Adhikari's strength and vigour at his age, it would be very difficult to find a leader across the country capable of taking him on," Mitra added. Also Read: Andy Burnham set to become UK PM, replacing Starmer as Britain gets its seventh premier in a decade TMC grapples with a fresh wave of defections after poll rout The TMC has witnessed multiple defections of its MPs and MLAs following its disastrous showing in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, which ended its 15-year rule in the state. The BJP secured a landslide victory, winning 208 of the 294 Assembly seats. With Mitra's defection, the rebel faction now has 60 of the TMC's original 80 MLAs, while the Mamata Banerjee faction is left with 20. The rebel camp, which was formed after 58 MLAs signed a letter to the Speaker, however, claims to have the support of at least 65 legislators but has not published their names so far. Meanwhile, reacting to the defections, Mamata Banerjee asked leaders planning to quit the party to do so before the TMC's July 21 Martyrs' Day rally, maintaining that the departures would not weaken the organisation. Her remarks came hours after TMC Rajya Sabha MP and actor Rukmini Mallick, popularly known as Koel Mallick, resigned and met Union Minister Bhupender Yadav. "Today, I saw that another MP, who is also a respected and talented film artist, met a BJP leader and resigned. I respect her as an artist. For everyone's information, she had already sent her resignation by email, and I thank her for personally submitting it today," Banerjee said.

Senior TMC leader Madan Mitra dismissed allegations that fear of the Enforcement Directorate prompted his exit, saying political differences and dissatisfaction with the party's leadership led him to join the Ritabrata Banerjee-led rebel faction.

'ED didn't scare us': Madan Mitra rejects agency fear behind leaving TMC, cites this reason

Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel MLAs “took control” of the party headquarters in Kolkata on Friday, a day after staking their claim to the party’s name and election symbol before the Election Commission in New Delhi. The group led by Ritabrata Banerjee and Firhad Hakim returned from New Delhi and took control over Trinamool Bhavan on EM Bypass. After holding meetings at the premises, the leaders, accompanied by MLAs Sandipan Saha, Javed Khan and party treasurer Akruzzaman, entered the premises, held a meeting inside and changed the locks on the gates.&nbsp;The group also put up an ‘All India Trinamool Congress’ banner outside Trinamool Bhavan carrying the name of senior MLA Arup Roy as the party’s chairperson.&nbsp;The rebel group also claimed that it had completed the necessary formalities with the owners of the premises and would henceforth operate from Trinamool Bhavan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-all-extremely-pained-and-angered-rss-says-ram-temple-trust-must-rectify-all-shortcomings-1783074551640">‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings</a>&nbsp;The office has served as the Trinamool's operational headquarters since 2022, after the party moved there during reconstruction of its original premises.&nbsp;On Thursday, the TMC rebel leaders had appeared before the full bench of the Election Commission in New Delhi and claimed to be the legitimate Trinamool Congress and therefore entitled to the party’s name and symbol.<h2>Mamata camp slams actionm, calls claim ‘baseless’</h2>&nbsp;The move drew sharp criticism from leaders aligned with Mamata Banerjee’s camp, including Madan Mitra and Kunal Ghosh. Police and central forces have since been deployed outside the party headquarters amid rising tensions.Mamata loyalist Kalyan Banerjee dismissed the rebels’ claims as “baseless” and asserted that the party would prove them false.He also questioned their authority to represent the party and warned that the TMC would challenge them both legally and politically.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-politicians-and-military-not-india-big-part-of-its-problems-says-singapore-s-ex-envoy-1783084062494">‘Pakistan’s politicians and military, not India, big part of its problems,’ says Singapore’s ex-envoy</a><h2>Slam EC for meeting with rebels</h2>&nbsp;The Mamata Banerjee camp leaders also criticised the Election Commission’s meeting with the rebels saying leaders expelled from the party had no legal or organisational authority to represent the Trinamool Congress.“The Election Commission had informed all political parties that only authorised signatories can seek a meeting. The AITC did not ask for a meeting. On what basis did the Election Commission grant an appointment to a person expelled by the TMC?” senior leader Saugata Roy said.&nbsp;After the hearing, the Election Commission asked both groups to submit their respective claims and counterclaims regarding the party’s organisational elections, authorised signatories and control over the organisation by 5.30 pm on July 6.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-deputy-pm-ishaq-dar-s-grandson-arrested-for-abduction-gangrape-of-two-women-foreigners-in-lahore-1783092769837">Pakistan Deputy PM Ishaq Dar’s grandson arrested for abduction, gangrape of two women foreigners in Lahore</a>&nbsp;Kalyan Banerjee said the poll panel had sought the party’s response on certain documents and that it would respond at the appropriate time.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Ritabrata-led group of MLAs revolted against the former chief minister, reportedly over the growing influence of her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, within the party.&nbsp;&nbsp;The camp now claims the support of around 65 legislators.Twenty of the Trinamool’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs also broke away, merged with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) and aligned with the BJP-led NDA.

A day after appearing before the full bench of the Election Commission in New Delhi and claiming to be the legitimate Trinamool Congress, the rebels claimed they had completed the necessary formalities with the owners of the premises and would henceforth operate from Trinamool Bhavan.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel MLAs “took control” of the party headquarters in Kolkata on Friday, a day after staking their claim to the party’s name and election symbol before the Election Commission in New Delhi. The group led by Ritabrata Banerjee and Firhad Hakim returned from New Delhi and took control over Trinamool Bhavan on EM Bypass. After holding meetings at the premises, the leaders, accompanied by MLAs Sandipan Saha, Javed Khan and party treasurer Akruzzaman, entered the premises, held a meeting inside and changed the locks on the gates. The group also put up an ‘All India Trinamool Congress’ banner outside Trinamool Bhavan carrying the name of senior MLA Arup Roy as the party’s chairperson. The rebel group also claimed that it had completed the necessary formalities with the owners of the premises and would henceforth operate from Trinamool Bhavan. Also Read: ‘We are all extremely pained and angered’: RSS says Ram Temple trust must rectify all shortcomings The office has served as the Trinamool's operational headquarters since 2022, after the party moved there during reconstruction of its original premises. On Thursday, the TMC rebel leaders had appeared before the full bench of the Election Commission in New Delhi and claimed to be the legitimate Trinamool Congress and therefore entitled to the party’s name and symbol. Mamata camp slams actionm, calls claim ‘baseless’ The move drew sharp criticism from leaders aligned with Mamata Banerjee’s camp, including Madan Mitra and Kunal Ghosh. Police and central forces have since been deployed outside the party headquarters amid rising tensions. Mamata loyalist Kalyan Banerjee dismissed the rebels’ claims as “baseless” and asserted that the party would prove them false. He also questioned their authority to represent the party and warned that the TMC would challenge them both legally and politically. Also Read: ‘Pakistan’s politicians and military, not India, big part of its problems,’ says Singapore’s ex-envoy Slam EC for meeting with rebels The Mamata Banerjee camp leaders also criticised the Election Commission’s meeting with the rebels saying leaders expelled from the party had no legal or organisational authority to represent the Trinamool Congress. “The Election Commission had informed all political parties that only authorised signatories can seek a meeting. The AITC did not ask for a meeting. On what basis did the Election Commission grant an appointment to a person expelled by the TMC?” senior leader Saugata Roy said. After the hearing, the Election Commission asked both groups to submit their respective claims and counterclaims regarding the party’s organisational elections, authorised signatories and control over the organisation by 5.30 pm on July 6. Also Read: Pakistan Deputy PM Ishaq Dar’s grandson arrested for abduction, gangrape of two women foreigners in Lahore Kalyan Banerjee said the poll panel had sought the party’s response on certain documents and that it would respond at the appropriate time. The Ritabrata-led group of MLAs revolted against the former chief minister, reportedly over the growing influence of her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, within the party. The camp now claims the support of around 65 legislators. Twenty of the Trinamool’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs also broke away, merged with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) and aligned with the BJP-led NDA.

A day after appearing before the full bench of the Election Commission in New Delhi and claiming to be the legitimate Trinamool Congress, the rebels claimed they had completed the necessary formalities with the owners of the premises and would henceforth operate from Trinamool Bhavan.

Ritabrata-led TMC faction ‘takes control over’ party HQ in Kolkata as row with Mamata group escalates

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

In yet another major blow to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Mamata Banerjee, veteran TMC leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay on Saturday joined the rebel group and met Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in Delhi along with dissident MP Satabdi Roy. The defection of Bandyopadhyay comes at a time the rebel group, which claims the support of 19 Lok Sabha MPs, are gearing up to meet Speaker Om Birla on Monday to urge him to recognise them as a separate bloc.&nbsp;Bandyopadhyay also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah soon after meeting other senior BJP leaders. Following its defeat in the recently concluded West Bengal election, the Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split after rebellion by a large section of its lawmakers rocked the party.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-trump-to-meet-on-sidelines-of-g7-summit-in-france-amid-attack-on-indian-seafarers-in-hormuz-1781368021953">Modi, Trump to meet on sidelines of G7 Summit in France amid attack on Indian seafarers in Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Out of the 28 members in the Lok Sabha, 19 of them claim to have broken away while 3 of its 13 Rajya Sabha members have resigned leaving Mamata and her party in a fix.&nbsp;TMC MP Satabdi Roy also visited the residence of Union Minister and BJP leader Bhupender Yadav in Delhi along with Sudip Bandyopadhyay.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Rebel MP Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia said, "We have submitted the letter...On Monday, we will go to the Speaker and stake our claim to form the real TMC parliamentary group."He claimed that 19 MPs have signed the representation for which the process began on June 8. &nbsp;

Following TMCs defeat in the recently concluded West Bengal elections, the Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split after rebellion by a large section of its lawmakers rocked the party.

In yet another major blow to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Mamata Banerjee, veteran TMC leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay on Saturday joined the rebel group and met Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in Delhi along with dissident MP Satabdi Roy. The defection of Bandyopadhyay comes at a time the rebel group, which claims the support of 19 Lok Sabha MPs, are gearing up to meet Speaker Om Birla on Monday to urge him to recognise them as a separate bloc. Bandyopadhyay also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah soon after meeting other senior BJP leaders. Following its defeat in the recently concluded West Bengal election, the Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split after rebellion by a large section of its lawmakers rocked the party. ALSO READ: Modi, Trump to meet on sidelines of G7 Summit in France amid attack on Indian seafarers in Hormuz Out of the 28 members in the Lok Sabha, 19 of them claim to have broken away while 3 of its 13 Rajya Sabha members have resigned leaving Mamata and her party in a fix. TMC MP Satabdi Roy also visited the residence of Union Minister and BJP leader Bhupender Yadav in Delhi along with Sudip Bandyopadhyay. Meanwhile, Rebel MP Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia said, "We have submitted the letter...On Monday, we will go to the Speaker and stake our claim to form the real TMC parliamentary group." He claimed that 19 MPs have signed the representation for which the process began on June 8.

Following TMC's defeat in the recently concluded West Bengal elections, the Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split after rebellion by a large section of its lawmakers rocked the party.

Another jolt to Mamata, veteran leader Sudip Bandopadhyay joins rebel camp

An FIR has been registered against former West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chairperson Mamata Banerjee over a speech she allegedly delivered at a rally in Kolkata while campaigning for state assembly elections earlier this year.&nbsp;The FIR was registered on June 7 under Sections 196(1), 351(2) and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), reported news agency ANI. The complaint filed by Tushar Kanti Das says Banerjee’s speech at the Dharna Mancha near Metro Channel in Esplanade (Dharmatala) on March 9 allegedly contained misleading remarks aimed at provoking a breach of peace, disturbing public tranquillity and affecting communal harmony.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-that-we-agreed-to-trump-slams-terms-of-peace-deal-reported-by-iranian-state-media-1781273873656">‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media</a>&nbsp;Das also alleged that the speech posed a threat to the state’s democratic framework.&nbsp;“We have received the complaint, and a case has been registered in accordance with legal procedure. All aspects of the speech and the context in which it was delivered are being thoroughly examined,” said a senior police officer.&nbsp;The FIR adds to the troubles of TMC and raises political tensions in West Bengal. The TMC, which is facing a major internal crisis, said the FIR is “politically motivated” and alleged that it is part of continued attempts to target the party leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-use-iran-s-frozen-funds-to-pay-for-damages-inflicted-on-gulf-allies-scott-bessent-1781205304888">‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent</a><h2>CID officials grill Abhishek Banerjee in signature forgery case</h2>&nbsp;A team of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officials reached the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee in Kolkata on Friday in connection with the signature forgery case.Lawyers of Abhishek Banerjee also arrived at his residence.On Thursday, Abhishek Banerjee was o questioned by the CID for nearly 5.5 hours in the signature forgery case at Bhabani Bhawan, the agency’s headquarters in Kolkata’s Alipore area.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-an-election-petition-that-the-supreme-court-has-asked-meenakshi-natarajan-to-file-1781268819009">What is an election petition that the Supreme Court has asked Meenakshi Natarajan to file?</a>&nbsp;TMC MLA Madan Mitra said that Abhishek Banerjee had been cooperating with the investigation and would continue to do so.“They (CID) have come; it’s their job, so they’ve come. They want cooperation from Abhishek Banerjee, and Abhishek Banerjee is cooperating. He has cooperated in the past, and he will continue to cooperate,” he said.

The FIR against Mamata Banerjee adds to the troubles of TMC and raises political tensions in West Bengal. The TMC, which is facing a major internal crisis, said the FIR is “politically motivated” and alleged that it is part of continued attempts to target the party leadership. 

An FIR has been registered against former West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chairperson Mamata Banerjee over a speech she allegedly delivered at a rally in Kolkata while campaigning for state assembly elections earlier this year. The FIR was registered on June 7 under Sections 196(1), 351(2) and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), reported news agency ANI. The complaint filed by Tushar Kanti Das says Banerjee’s speech at the Dharna Mancha near Metro Channel in Esplanade (Dharmatala) on March 9 allegedly contained misleading remarks aimed at provoking a breach of peace, disturbing public tranquillity and affecting communal harmony. Also Read: ‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media Das also alleged that the speech posed a threat to the state’s democratic framework. “We have received the complaint, and a case has been registered in accordance with legal procedure. All aspects of the speech and the context in which it was delivered are being thoroughly examined,” said a senior police officer. The FIR adds to the troubles of TMC and raises political tensions in West Bengal. The TMC, which is facing a major internal crisis, said the FIR is “politically motivated” and alleged that it is part of continued attempts to target the party leadership. Also Read: ‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent CID officials grill Abhishek Banerjee in signature forgery case A team of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officials reached the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee in Kolkata on Friday in connection with the signature forgery case. Lawyers of Abhishek Banerjee also arrived at his residence. On Thursday, Abhishek Banerjee was o questioned by the CID for nearly 5.5 hours in the signature forgery case at Bhabani Bhawan, the agency’s headquarters in Kolkata’s Alipore area. Also Read: What is an election petition that the Supreme Court has asked Meenakshi Natarajan to file? TMC MLA Madan Mitra said that Abhishek Banerjee had been cooperating with the investigation and would continue to do so. “They (CID) have come; it’s their job, so they’ve come. They want cooperation from Abhishek Banerjee, and Abhishek Banerjee is cooperating. He has cooperated in the past, and he will continue to cooperate,” he said.

The FIR against Mamata Banerjee adds to the troubles of TMC and raises political tensions in West Bengal. The TMC, which is facing a major internal crisis, said the FIR is “politically motivated” and alleged that it is part of continued attempts to target the party leadership.&nbsp;

FIR lodged against Mamata Banerjee over ‘inflammatory’ speech during Bengal elections

The West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Tuesday conducted searches at the Trinamool Congress’s central party office in Kolkata’s Kalighat and at the office of TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Camac Street as part of its investigation into the alleged signature forgery case.The searches came as Abhishek Banerjee skipped a third summons issued by the CID, citing his absence from the city and pending proceedings before the Calcutta High Court.&nbsp;Around 30 CID officers, accompanied by personnel from the Kalighat Police Station and central forces, reached the TMC office at 30B Harish Chatterjee Street in the afternoon. The premises, just adjacent to the residence of TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, also serve as the party’s central office.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In his response, Abhishek Banerjee stated that signatures of MLAs were collected at the party’s central office at 30B Harish Chatterjee Street. Based on that statement, we have come here as part of the investigation,” a CID officer said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hope-pak-is-held-accountable-for-misdeeds-india-condemns-massacre-of-kashmiris-in-pok-1781008180684">‘Hope Pak is held accountable for misdeeds’: India condemns massacre of Kashmiris in PoK</a><h2>CID officers prevented from entering initially, had to wait outside</h2>&nbsp;Sources said CID officers were initially prevented from entering the premises and had to wait outside for nearly an hour. TMC treasurer and former MP Subhasish Chakraborty told the officers that both Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee were in New Delhi and that he could not permit entry without their authorisation.Officers told Chakraborty that he cannot stop them from entering, and the team subsequently went in. The entire process was videographed, and officers were searched before entering the building.The CID officer also searched Abhishek Banerjee’s office on Camac Street after facing initial resistance there as well.&nbsp;Investigators are probing allegations that signatures of several TMC MLAs were forged on a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, endorsing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay’s selection as the Leader of Opposition (LoP). Rebel TMC MLAs Ritabrata Banerjee and Sandipan Saha filed a complaint alleging that a resolution adopted on May 6 was fabricated and that signatures of several legislators on the document were forged.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-rules-trump-s-100-000-fee-for-h-1b-visas-unlawful-strikes-it-down-1780944680172">Federal judge rules Trump’s $100,000 fee for H-1B visas unlawful, strikes it down</a><h2>Investigation was handed over to CID after FIR</h2>&nbsp;After a preliminary inquiry by the Assembly Secretariat, an FIR was registered at Hare Street Police Station and the investigation was subsequently handed over to CID.CID has so far recorded statements of 13 TMC MLAs. Three of them, Baharul Islam, Arup Roy, and Subhasis Das, have reportedly disowned the signatures attributed to them on the document.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-sanctions-irgc-navy-unit-2-iranians-over-crippling-strait-of-hormuz-blockade-1780933198425">EU sanctions IRGC Navy unit, 2 Iranians over crippling Strait of Hormuz blockade</a>&nbsp;Abhishek Banerjee reportedly wrote to CID seeking more time, stating that the matter is pending before the Calcutta High Court and is scheduled to be heard on June 10. He also told investigators that he was in New Delhi for political engagements.&nbsp;He has challenged the CID summons before the Calcutta High Court. His counsel had earlier moved the vacation bench seeking relief against the notices issued by the investigating agency.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Investigators are probing allegations that signatures of several Trinamool Congress MLAs were forged on a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, endorsing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay’s selection as the Leader of Opposition (LoP).

The West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Tuesday conducted searches at the Trinamool Congress’s central party office in Kolkata’s Kalighat and at the office of TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Camac Street as part of its investigation into the alleged signature forgery case. The searches came as Abhishek Banerjee skipped a third summons issued by the CID, citing his absence from the city and pending proceedings before the Calcutta High Court. Around 30 CID officers, accompanied by personnel from the Kalighat Police Station and central forces, reached the TMC office at 30B Harish Chatterjee Street in the afternoon. The premises, just adjacent to the residence of TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, also serve as the party’s central office. “In his response, Abhishek Banerjee stated that signatures of MLAs were collected at the party’s central office at 30B Harish Chatterjee Street. Based on that statement, we have come here as part of the investigation,” a CID officer said. Also Read: ‘Hope Pak is held accountable for misdeeds’: India condemns massacre of Kashmiris in PoK CID officers prevented from entering initially, had to wait outside Sources said CID officers were initially prevented from entering the premises and had to wait outside for nearly an hour. TMC treasurer and former MP Subhasish Chakraborty told the officers that both Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee were in New Delhi and that he could not permit entry without their authorisation. Officers told Chakraborty that he cannot stop them from entering, and the team subsequently went in. The entire process was videographed, and officers were searched before entering the building. The CID officer also searched Abhishek Banerjee’s office on Camac Street after facing initial resistance there as well. Investigators are probing allegations that signatures of several TMC MLAs were forged on a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, endorsing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay’s selection as the Leader of Opposition (LoP). Rebel TMC MLAs Ritabrata Banerjee and Sandipan Saha filed a complaint alleging that a resolution adopted on May 6 was fabricated and that signatures of several legislators on the document were forged. Also Read: Federal judge rules Trump’s $100,000 fee for H-1B visas unlawful, strikes it down Investigation was handed over to CID after FIR After a preliminary inquiry by the Assembly Secretariat, an FIR was registered at Hare Street Police Station and the investigation was subsequently handed over to CID. CID has so far recorded statements of 13 TMC MLAs. Three of them, Baharul Islam, Arup Roy, and Subhasis Das, have reportedly disowned the signatures attributed to them on the document. Also Read: EU sanctions IRGC Navy unit, 2 Iranians over crippling Strait of Hormuz blockade Abhishek Banerjee reportedly wrote to CID seeking more time, stating that the matter is pending before the Calcutta High Court and is scheduled to be heard on June 10. He also told investigators that he was in New Delhi for political engagements. He has challenged the CID summons before the Calcutta High Court. His counsel had earlier moved the vacation bench seeking relief against the notices issued by the investigating agency.

Investigators are probing allegations that signatures of several Trinamool Congress MLAs were forged on a letter sent to Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, endorsing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay’s selection as the Leader of Opposition (LoP).

Forged signature case: CID searches offices of Trinamool Congress and Abhishek Banerjee

Mamta loyalists on Tuesday hit out at the rebel leaders who reached out to the speaker to back the BJP-led NDA calling it an “act of betrayal”. TMC leader Kalyan Banarjee said that if any MP has decided to quit the TMC they should also quit their MP post. He said that Trinamool Congress is happy that they have shown their true colours and “the double-character people are gone”. He further added that Sukhendu Shekhar Roy, who resigned from Rajya Sabha demonstrated polictical morality, those who are going against the party and meeting other party leaders should resign on moral grounds.&nbsp;"We are very happy that the double-character people are gone. Whoever wants to go can go. We are okay with you leaving. But you cannot take the name of the Trinamool and Mamata Banerjee. People know the truth, and they stand by us," &nbsp;said Kalyan Banarjee. Other loyalists, including Kirti Azad, have branded the rebel faction as traitors who are driven solely by a hunger for power&nbsp;However, he claimed the BJP won't take in any of them. "They don't have enough numbers to merge with another party," the Lok Sabha MP told a press conference this morning.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-trump-immigration-policies-fifa-world-cup-2026-1781004056691">'Anathema to football': Mamdani's explosive attack on Trump's World Cup policies</a>While the Mamta loyalist claim that the rebel MPs leaving the party cleanses it, but a the TMC party is facing a situation of civil war. The party faces double crisis, one at the Bengal Legislative Assembly and another at the General Assembly. The Legislative Assembly rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banarjee consists of around 61 of the 80 TMC MLAs have not defected from TMC but have revolted against the leadership of the Abhisek Banarjee, nephew of Mamta and claimed the Leader of Opposition office. While the other faction led by Kakoli Dastidar along with a group of 20-28 MPs are planning to shift allegiance to the NDA, a recurring theme from Maharashtra. While this does not directly imply a collapse, but signifies a significantly diminished TMC ahead on the 2028 General Assembly election.&nbsp;

Mamata Banerjee loyalists have slammed rebel TMC leaders seeking closer ties with the NDA, as internal divisions threaten to weaken the party ahead of future elections.

Mamta loyalists on Tuesday hit out at the rebel leaders who reached out to the speaker to back the BJP-led NDA calling it an “act of betrayal”. TMC leader Kalyan Banarjee said that if any MP has decided to quit the TMC they should also quit their MP post. He said that Trinamool Congress is happy that they have shown their true colours and “the double-character people are gone”. He further added that Sukhendu Shekhar Roy, who resigned from Rajya Sabha demonstrated polictical morality, those who are going against the party and meeting other party leaders should resign on moral grounds. "We are very happy that the double-character people are gone. Whoever wants to go can go. We are okay with you leaving. But you cannot take the name of the Trinamool and Mamata Banerjee. People know the truth, and they stand by us," said Kalyan Banarjee. Other loyalists, including Kirti Azad, have branded the rebel faction as traitors who are driven solely by a hunger for power However, he claimed the BJP won't take in any of them. "They don't have enough numbers to merge with another party," the Lok Sabha MP told a press conference this morning. Also Read: 'Anathema to football': Mamdani's explosive attack on Trump's World Cup policies While the Mamta loyalist claim that the rebel MPs leaving the party cleanses it, but a the TMC party is facing a situation of civil war. The party faces double crisis, one at the Bengal Legislative Assembly and another at the General Assembly. The Legislative Assembly rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banarjee consists of around 61 of the 80 TMC MLAs have not defected from TMC but have revolted against the leadership of the Abhisek Banarjee, nephew of Mamta and claimed the Leader of Opposition office. While the other faction led by Kakoli Dastidar along with a group of 20-28 MPs are planning to shift allegiance to the NDA, a recurring theme from Maharashtra. While this does not directly imply a collapse, but signifies a significantly diminished TMC ahead on the 2028 General Assembly election.

Mamata Banerjee loyalists have slammed rebel TMC leaders seeking closer ties with the NDA, as internal divisions threaten to weaken the party ahead of future elections.

TMC civil war deepens as Mamata loyalists target rebel MPs reaching out to NDA

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on Monday (June 08) launched a blistering attack on party rebels amid reports that a section of TMC MPs could align with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance.&nbsp;Responding to claims that some MPs may back the NDA, Moitra asserted that those elected in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls won on the strength of the Trinamool Congress mandate and not on behalf of any other political formation.&nbsp;"MPs won in 2024 on the TMC ticket. Mandate was NOT for NDA," Moitra said in a post on X.&nbsp;She also challenged dissident MPs to resign from Parliament and seek a fresh mandate if they intended to switch sides.&nbsp;"All the greedy, self-serving traitors with yellow-stained pants can please join the BJP now. Resign your seats &amp; contest on the BJP ticket," she remarked.&nbsp;Moitra further dared the rebels to test their electoral strength outside the party fold."Let's see what big heroes you are."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bibi-you-will-be-on-your-own-trump-s-stern-warning-to-netanyahu-against-renewed-iran-conflict-1780954671256">'Bibi, you will be on your own': Trump's stern warning to Netanyahu against renewed Iran conflict</a><h2>Mahua targets Yusuf Pathan</h2>Escalating her attack, Moitra singled out TMC MP Yusuf Pathan over allegations of outreach with BJP leaders and questioned his decision to engage with the party.&nbsp;"And @iamyusufpathan you are rushing to Delhi because @AmitShah has called you? Have some courage. You played for India. Our district voted you in with a huge margin. Have some shame &amp; some spine," she said in another post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">And <a href="https://x.com/iamyusufpathan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamyusufpathan</a> you are rushing to Delhi because <a href="https://x.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> has called you? Have some courage. You played for India. Our district voted you in with a huge margin. Have some shame &amp; some spine.&mdash; Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) <a href="https://x.com/MahuaMoitra/status/2063962743859024321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Her remarks came amid growing speculation over unrest within the Trinamool Congress and reports that a group of MPs may be considering a shift towards the NDA.&nbsp;The controversy intensified after nearly 20 TMC Members of Parliament formally indicated their desire to distance themselves from the party's current political direction and align with the BJP-led alliance.&nbsp;Among them, rebel MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar said she would not bow to political pressure after a faction of 20 MPs sought separate seating arrangements in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Dastidar said her decision was driven by concerns over governance in West Bengal, while rejecting the accusations of opportunism and reiterated that she had remained politically active in the state long before the TMC came to power.&nbsp;"Mera sar katega lekin jhukega nahi... Maine bohot seh liya... I did not come here after Mamata Banerjee became Chief Minister in 2011; I have been fighting here for 40 years. And as I said, the words of such people have absolutely no effect on me."&nbsp;Dastidar said her decision to part ways with the party stemmed from dissatisfaction with the current state of governance in West Bengal. She also stressed that her primary concern remains national interest and the security of the country.

The row escalated amid reports that nearly 20 TMC MPs are seeking to break away from the party's current leadership line and move closer to the BJP-led NDA.

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on Monday (June 08) launched a blistering attack on party rebels amid reports that a section of TMC MPs could align with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. Responding to claims that some MPs may back the NDA, Moitra asserted that those elected in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls won on the strength of the Trinamool Congress mandate and not on behalf of any other political formation. "MPs won in 2024 on the TMC ticket. Mandate was NOT for NDA," Moitra said in a post on X. She also challenged dissident MPs to resign from Parliament and seek a fresh mandate if they intended to switch sides. "All the greedy, self-serving traitors with yellow-stained pants can please join the BJP now. Resign your seats & contest on the BJP ticket," she remarked. Moitra further dared the rebels to test their electoral strength outside the party fold. "Let's see what big heroes you are." Also Read: 'Bibi, you will be on your own': Trump's stern warning to Netanyahu against renewed Iran conflict Mahua targets Yusuf Pathan Escalating her attack, Moitra singled out TMC MP Yusuf Pathan over allegations of outreach with BJP leaders and questioned his decision to engage with the party. "And @iamyusufpathan you are rushing to Delhi because @AmitShah has called you? Have some courage. You played for India. Our district voted you in with a huge margin. Have some shame & some spine," she said in another post.

The row escalated amid reports that nearly 20 TMC MPs are seeking to break away from the party's current leadership line and move closer to the BJP-led NDA.

‘Have some spine’: Mahua Moitra targets Yusuf Pathan, says TMC mandate ‘was NOT for NDA’ amid defection buzz

The Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split as at least 20 TMC MPs submitted a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressing their desire to ally with the BJP-led NDA, reported news agency PTI, citing MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, who was recently removed as the party’s chief whip in the Lok Sabha after her outburst following the Trinamool poll debacle. The decision of the MPs came even as TMC chief Mamata Banerjee was in Delhi, attending a meeting of the opposition’s INDIA bloc. The TMC has 28 Lok Sabha MPs.&nbsp;“Nearly 20 TMC MPs, including me, have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla about our decision to support the NDA,” she said. “We accepted the poll verdict in Bengal and believe our future political course should be aligned with NDA,” she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">STORY | 20 TMC MPs write to Speaker backing NDA, triggering split in party&#39;s Lok Sabha unit The crisis engulfing the TMC deepened on Monday as 20 Lok Sabha MPs, led by Chief Whip Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, wrote to Speaker Om Birla declaring support for the BJP-led NDA, triggering a… <a href="https://t.co/DJoStyLQof">pic.twitter.com/DJoStyLQof</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2063953933878636641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar further claimed that she continues to be the party's chief whip in the Lok Sabha, and said the decision to go with NDA was taken after proper consultations with fellow MPs.&nbsp;After TMC’s electoral debacle, Dastidar, who is an MP from Barasat, West Bengal, had resigned from all her organisational posts, including as the National President of the All India Mahila Trinamool Congress (the party’s women’s wing) and the Barasat organisational district president.&nbsp;She openly rebelled against the party’s leadership structure, and pointed fingers at the political consultancy firm I-PAC brought in by Mamata’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee. She said that I-PAC’s high-handed decisions marginalised the veteran grassroots party workers and destroyed their morale, which led to the defeat. She also criticised the policies and failures of the state government under Mamata Banerjee.&nbsp;She even attended an administrative review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, stoking speculation that a faction of disgruntled TMC legislators is preparing ground for a split.&nbsp;Another Trinamool MP Sharmila Sarkar said that they are forming a different bloc of 20 MPs and going to give support to the NDA. Sarkar added that Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar will be the chief whip and Shatabdi Roy the deputy leader of their group.&nbsp;Earlier, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Shekhar Ray resigned from the party and the Upper House. His resignation was accepted by the chairman.&nbsp;The development deepens the crisis within the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC after growing dissent and a string of high-profile resignations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The crisis within the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) deepened as signs of rebellion that first emerged after the assembly election results finally reached its parliamentary wing. Earlier, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Shekhar Ray resigned from the party and the Upper House.

The Trinamool Congress seems to be heading for a split as at least 20 TMC MPs submitted a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday expressing their desire to ally with the BJP-led NDA, reported news agency PTI, citing MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, who was recently removed as the party’s chief whip in the Lok Sabha after her outburst following the Trinamool poll debacle. The decision of the MPs came even as TMC chief Mamata Banerjee was in Delhi, attending a meeting of the opposition’s INDIA bloc. The TMC has 28 Lok Sabha MPs. “Nearly 20 TMC MPs, including me, have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla about our decision to support the NDA,” she said. “We accepted the poll verdict in Bengal and believe our future political course should be aligned with NDA,” she added.

The crisis within the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) deepened as signs of rebellion that first emerged after the assembly election results finally reached its parliamentary wing. Earlier, TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Shekhar Ray resigned from the party and the Upper House.&nbsp;

TMC crisis deepens: 20 MPs write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, ‘want to ally with NDA’

Trinamool MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, expelled for anti-party activities recently, said on Wednesday that he has been recognised by the Bengal Assembly Speaker as the Leader of the Opposition after 60 MLAs submitted letters of support endorsing him. However, Ritabrata maintained that Mamata Banerjee was their leader and said he does not intend to split the party. The former Left leader, who joined the TMC in 2018, was handed over the keys to the chamber of the leader of the opposition.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier in the day, the 58 rebel MLAs submitted their letter of support to Speaker Rathindranath Bose, comfortably crossing the two-thirds threshold required under the anti-defection law to avoid disqualification. The rebel camp named Banerjee as legislature party leader, Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha and Shiuli Saha as deputy leaders in House and Akhruzzaman as chief whip.&nbsp;They also said that their faction should be recognised as the TMC’s “real” legislative wing.&nbsp;In their communication to the Speaker, the rebel MLAs continued to recognise Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kolkata, West Bengal | Expelled TMC MLA Ritabrata Banerjee says, &quot;We have claimed that the legislative party belongs to these MLAs. Two-thirds of the MLAs who have won in the symbol of the Trinomial Congress. The West Bengal State Legislative Assembly, the Speaker, has… <a href="https://t.co/9qHJxegawa">pic.twitter.com/9qHJxegawa</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2062147130794647712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“We are real and main opposition in West Bengal assembly according to parliamentary norms,” Ritabrata said while addressing a press conference.&nbsp;“Javed Khan, Sandeepan Saha, Sabina Yasmin, Shiuli Saha to be deputy leaders of TMC legislature party,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dk-shivakumar-takes-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-g-parameshwara-as-his-deputy-1780490671474">DK Shivakumar takes oath as Karnataka Chief Minister, G Parameshwara as his deputy</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Ritabrata made it clear that the rebel MLAs were not challenging the leadership of Mamata and would work under the TMC flag.“Will request Mamata Banerjee to keep advising us as always while staying at the helm of affairs,” added Ritabrata, who won from Uluberia Purba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Expelled TMC leader Ritabrata Banerjee says, &quot;We will write to Mamata Banerjee to be chief adviser of TMC legislature party in 18th Bengal Legislative Assembly.&quot; The rebellion within the TMC took a decisive turn on Wednesday, as 58 dissident MLAs backed legislator… <a href="https://t.co/IDQShyHpWy">pic.twitter.com/IDQShyHpWy</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2062169024981856471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;However, he took a swipe at Mamata’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee, calling his move a “collective fight against individualism”.&nbsp;Ritabrata said the rebel group consisted of 58 legislators elected on the party symbol and claimed that two more MLAs were likely to join them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-central-bank-says-inflation-at-world-war-ii-levels-eco-pain-deepening-for-iranians-1780432873791">Iran’s central bank says inflation at World War II levels; eco pain deepening for Iranians</a>&nbsp;Last week, TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, who is also the party’s general secretary, had written to the Speaker proposing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay as the LoP and Firhad Hakim as the chief whip.&nbsp;However, the Speaker did not accept the proposal after Ritabrata and Sandipan alleged that signatures of several TMC MLAs endorsing Sobhandeb were forged. A CID probe has been ordered into the alleged scandal and the agency has summoned Abhishek for questioning.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mosque-built-illegally-by-pakistanis-in-japan-inaugurated-by-envoy-faces-demolition-1780425871272">Mosque built illegally by Pakistanis in Japan, inaugurated by envoy, faces demolition</a>&nbsp;On Monday, the Trinamool expelled Ritabrata and Sandipan. The party did not explicitly mention the reason, but it came amid speculations of some MLAs trying to engineer a split.&nbsp;The developments earlier in the day prompted the Trinamool Congress party to dissolve all its organisational committees and frontal organisations across West Bengal with “immediate effect,” saying it needed to introspect and review the party structure.&nbsp;.

Last week, TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee had written to the Speaker proposing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay as the LoP and Firhad Hakim as the chief whip, but it was not accepted after Ritabrata and Sandipan alleged that signatures of several MLAs endorsing Sobhandeb were forged.

Trinamool MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, expelled for anti-party activities recently, said on Wednesday that he has been recognised by the Bengal Assembly Speaker as the Leader of the Opposition after 60 MLAs submitted letters of support endorsing him. However, Ritabrata maintained that Mamata Banerjee was their leader and said he does not intend to split the party. The former Left leader, who joined the TMC in 2018, was handed over the keys to the chamber of the leader of the opposition. Earlier in the day, the 58 rebel MLAs submitted their letter of support to Speaker Rathindranath Bose, comfortably crossing the two-thirds threshold required under the anti-defection law to avoid disqualification. The rebel camp named Banerjee as legislature party leader, Javed Khan, Sandipan Saha and Shiuli Saha as deputy leaders in House and Akhruzzaman as chief whip. They also said that their faction should be recognised as the TMC’s “real” legislative wing. In their communication to the Speaker, the rebel MLAs continued to recognise Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson.

Last week, TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee had written to the Speaker proposing Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay as the LoP and Firhad Hakim as the chief whip, but it was not accepted after Ritabrata and Sandipan alleged that signatures of several MLAs endorsing Sobhandeb were forged.

Expelled TMC MLA Ritabrata Banerjee becomes Bengal LoP, urges Mamata to be chief adviser

Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee faced a violent protest from locals during his visit to Sonarpur in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district on Saturday. An agitated crowd hurled eggs at Banerjee and threw stones at his convoy as he arrived to meet the families of victims affected by recent post-poll violence in West Bengal, said senior police officials.The local police deployment struggled to contain the sudden outburst of public anger, which led to intense security skirmishes and forced the MP’s security personnel to form a protective cordon around him to prevent injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Sonarpur, West Bengal: TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee was beaten up by locals during his visit to Sonarpur to meet the post-poll victims&#39; families <a href="https://t.co/zkXxLJydqe">pic.twitter.com/zkXxLJydqe</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2060684033559073236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>‘Orchestrated assault, BJP-engineered,’ alleges Banerjee</h2>&nbsp;Addressing the media after the incident, Banerjee labelled the incident as a completely orchestrated assault and accused the ruling BJP of engineering it.The TMC leadership has demanded an immediate inquiry into the intelligence failure that left the high-profile MP exposed to a stone-pelting crowd. The violence in Sonarpur underscores the volatile political landscape in West Bengal, which continues to simmer with post-electoral friction.&nbsp;<h2>‘Spontaneous manifestation of public anger,’ says BJP, denies any role&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The BJP vehemently denied Banerjee’s allegations and said the protests were a spontaneous manifestation of public anger against the TMC leadership.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sonarpur, West Bengal: Local residents raised slogans against TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee as he left the residence of the affected family after meeting them <a href="https://t.co/jwtec8CMdz">pic.twitter.com/jwtec8CMdz</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2060720671047766096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Local police have since deployed massive reinforcements, including anti-riot squads, to conduct flag marches and restore order in the sensitive pockets of Sonarpur.The confrontation is set to further strain the law-and-order situation as TMC vowed to hit the streets in protest against the attack.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dk-shivakumar-elected-clp-leader-to-take-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-on-june-3-1780144118342">DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on June 3</a>&nbsp;Security personnel made the TMC leader wear a helmet to prevent any injuries in attack. Visuals from the scene showed security personnel trying to escort Banerjee safely as tensions escalated.&nbsp;Banerjee further claimed that the attackers intended to kill him and said the entire incident had been captured on camera. “They wanted to kill me. The whole incident has been captured on camera. We will definitely let the High Court know about this. We will also let the Governor know about this. I will definitely move to court,” he said.Claiming that he narrowly escaped serious injury, the TMC MP alleged an absence of police personnel at the spot. “There is no police presence at the spot. They want to kill us. Let them do so. My dead body may be recovered from here, but I am not leaving the area,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Sonarpur, West Bengal: TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee says, &quot;...They wanted to kill me... The whole incident has been captured on camera. We will definitely let the high court know about this. We will also let the governor know about this... I will definitely move to court...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/MIZUJSZi3y">https://t.co/MIZUJSZi3y</a> <a href="https://t.co/LWBApD95oC">pic.twitter.com/LWBApD95oC</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2060690846660657470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Banerjee said he would not leave until adequate security arrangements were made. “I will not move out from here till police and forces ensure security here. They are trying to break the house, and they want to kill me,” he alleged.Police personnel and central forces later reached the spot and rescued Banerjee amid the tense situation.&nbsp;Former CM Mamata Banerjee reacted strongly to the incident and wrote in a post on X, “Rulers became killers – shame on you BJP.”&nbsp;Reacting to the attack on TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, BJP MLA Sanjay Singh said, “You may call it an attack or an expression of public anger, but it is the result of the resentment among the people here. Such an incident is condemnable, and the Bharatiya Janata Party does not support it...”

The TMC leadership has demanded an immediate inquiry into the intelligence failure that left MP Abhishek Banerje exposed to a stone-pelting crowd. The BJP vehemently denied Banerjee’s allegations and said the protests were a spontaneous manifestation of public anger against TMC leadership.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee faced a violent protest from locals during his visit to Sonarpur in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district on Saturday. An agitated crowd hurled eggs at Banerjee and threw stones at his convoy as he arrived to meet the families of victims affected by recent post-poll violence in West Bengal, said senior police officials. The local police deployment struggled to contain the sudden outburst of public anger, which led to intense security skirmishes and forced the MP’s security personnel to form a protective cordon around him to prevent injuries.

The TMC leadership has demanded an immediate inquiry into the intelligence failure that left MP Abhishek Banerje exposed to a stone-pelting crowd. The BJP vehemently denied Banerjee’s allegations and said the protests were a spontaneous manifestation of public anger against TMC leadership.

Locals hurl eggs and stones at Abhishek Banerjee, manhandle him in Sonarpur; TMC cries foul

A massive political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after police recovered bags stuffed with cash allegedly buried beneath farmland linked to arrested Trinamool Congress leader Dipankar Bhattacharya in North 24 Parganas district. The cash pile recovery happened during a late-night digging operation near Bhattacharya’s farmhouse in Batuldanga after investigators allegedly received fresh information during interrogation.<h2>Over 20 million recovered</h2>According to reports, police have recovered ₹22.4 million buried in the field. &nbsp;Visuals from the spot showed police officers carrying trolley bags and sacks packed with bundles of ₹500 notes from a jute field adjacent to the farmhouse.Investigators reportedly recovered four trolley bags and one large sack hidden underground.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/repeated-election-losses-dharmendra-pradhan-slams-raga-for-massive-tampering-allegations-takes-responsibility-for-cbse-osm-discrepancies-1779951821206">'Repeated election losses...': Dharmendra Pradhan slams RaGa for 'massive tampering' allegations; takes responsibility for CBSE OSM discrepancies</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Basirhat, West Bengal: The police arrested Baduria Municipality Chairman Dipankar Bhattacharya on charges of embezzlement of funds from various state government projects. After producing him before the court and interrogating him in custody, the police recovered a large amount of… <a href="https://t.co/osfFyMtskD">pic.twitter.com/osfFyMtskD</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2059611570406137962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Scandal deepens</h2>The scandal has rapidly widened because just two days earlier, police had already seized nearly ₹8 million in cash from Bhattacharya at the time of his arrest from a hotel.Bhattacharya, who serves as chairman of Baduria Municipality, is facing corruption and extortion allegations linked to government schemes and local businesses.Police officials said the latest recovery was made after Bhattacharya allegedly identified specific locations in the farmland where cash had been hidden beneath the soil.Drone surveillance was also reportedly used during the search operation to scan nearby fields for more hidden material.<h2>Stealing from the poor?</h2>Earlier, police recovered around 4,000 government tarpaulins from locations linked to Bhattacharya. The relief material was allegedly meant for families affected by natural disasters.Residents in the area claimed supplies meant for poor families were being illegally stored instead of distributed.Locals also alleged suspicious late-night activity near a local TMC office, including vehicles allegedly moving materials while documents were being burned outside the premises.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twisha-sharma-dowry-death-case-mp-high-court-quashes-mil-giribala-singh-s-anticipatory-bail-samarth-singh-to-stay-in-cbi-custody-till-29-may-1779938930530">Twisha Sharma dowry death case: MP High Court quashes MIL Giribala Singh's anticipatory bail; Samarth Singh to stay in CBI custody till 29 May</a><h2>Charges against Bhattacharya</h2>The investigation now centres around two key allegations against Bhattacharya.One relates to alleged commission-taking linked to the "Banglar Bari" housing scheme that was launched under the previous Trinamool government. The second involves accusations of extortion from traders and residents in Baduria.Police have also arrested Bhattacharya’s personal secretary, Shamim Gazi, as the probe widens.

A major political storm has erupted in West Bengal after police allegedly recovered millions buried beneath farmland linked to TMC leader Dipankar Bhattacharya. Investigators say trolley bags stuffed with cash were dug out during a late-night operation near his farmhouse. 

A massive political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after police recovered bags stuffed with cash allegedly buried beneath farmland linked to arrested Trinamool Congress leader Dipankar Bhattacharya in North 24 Parganas district. The cash pile recovery happened during a late-night digging operation near Bhattacharya’s farmhouse in Batuldanga after investigators allegedly received fresh information during interrogation. Over 20 million recovered According to reports, police have recovered ₹22.4 million buried in the field. Visuals from the spot showed police officers carrying trolley bags and sacks packed with bundles of ₹500 notes from a jute field adjacent to the farmhouse. Investigators reportedly recovered four trolley bags and one large sack hidden underground. Also read | 'Repeated election losses...': Dharmendra Pradhan slams RaGa for 'massive tampering' allegations; takes responsibility for CBSE OSM discrepancies

A major political storm has erupted in West Bengal after police allegedly recovered millions buried beneath farmland linked to TMC leader Dipankar Bhattacharya. Investigators say trolley bags stuffed with cash were dug out during a late-night operation near his farmhouse.&nbsp;

TMC leader’s ‘buried cash’ scandal explodes in Bengal; police recover over 20 million from Dipankar Bhattacharya's farmland

Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan made a shocking announcement on Tuesday, just two days before polling, and said that he is withdrawing his nomination and will not contest the Falta bypoll. Jahangir Khan cited Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s special package announcement for the constituency as the reason.&nbsp;“My objective is to ensure peace and security in Falta, and to foster its maximum possible development. My vision was ‘Sonar Falta’. The chief minister has said that a special package would be announced for Falta. That is why I am stepping aside from contesting the repoll,” Khan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | South 24 Parganas: Addressing a press conference, TMC leader Jahangir Khan said, &quot;I am the son of Falta and I want Falta to be at peace and grow. Our CM Suvendu Adhikari is giving a special package for the development of Falta, which is why I am separating myself from… <a href="https://t.co/R95Lw7DpHo">pic.twitter.com/R95Lw7DpHo</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2056660550394974381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-media-and-democrats-would-spin-even-iranian-surrender-as-us-defeat-1779123203379">Trump says media and Democrats would spin even Iranian surrender as US defeat</a>&nbsp;On being asked if this was a personal decision or his party’s, Khan said, “I have answered many questions before. Today, what I had to say was that I have withdrawn from this contest.”&nbsp;<h2>Trinamool distances itself from Jahangir’s decision</h2>&nbsp;However, the Trinamool distanced itself from Jahanagir’s decision to not contest the May 21 bypoll.“The decision taken by Jahangir Khan to withdraw from the Falta repoll is his personal decision and not that of the party. Since the election results were declared on 4th May, more than 100 of our party workers have been arrested in Falta alone. Several party offices have been vandalised, shut down and forcibly captured in broad daylight through intimidation, while the EC continues to turn a blind eye despite repeated complaints,” the Trinamool said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-fresh-offer-insufficient-for-a-deal-risks-resumption-of-war-senior-us-official-1779121624177">Iran’s fresh offer ‘insufficient’ for a deal, risks resumption of war: Senior US official</a>&nbsp;The party maintained that it will continue to “resist the BJP’s intimidation”.“Our workers remain rock-solid and continue to resist the BJP’s intimidation unleashed through agencies and administration. However, some eventually succumbed to the pressure and chose to step away from the field. We strongly condemn this. Our fight against the Bangla Birodhi BJP will continue, both in West Bengal and in Delhi,” the TMC statement added.&nbsp;The Falta repoll drew attention as it falls within Diamond Harbour, the parliamentary constituency of TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-deploys-8-000-troops-fighter-jets-and-air-defense-system-to-saudi-arabia-under-defence-pact-while-playing-mediator-1779114709036">Pakistan deploys 8,000 troops, fighter jets and air defense system to Saudi Arabia under defence pact, also plays mediator</a><h2>Falta repoll ordered after electoral malpractices</h2>&nbsp;Several complaints of alleged electoral malpractices had emerged from Falta during polling on April 29.At several polling booths, the EVM buttons corresponding to the names and symbols of BJP candidates were allegedly covered with white tape.Special poll observer Subrata Gupta had visited Falta and conducted an inquiry into the allegations. On the basis of the findings, the Election Commission ordered repolling in the entire Falta Assembly constituency.&nbsp;The votes for the bypoll will be counted on May 24. The BJP swept the Bengal assembly elections by winning 207 out of the 293 seats, while the TMC bagged 80 seats.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-lashkar-terrorist-infiltrates-to-set-up-sleeper-cells-gets-hair-transplant-done-in-srinagar-1779029058588">Pakistani Lashkar terrorist infiltrates to set up sleeper cells, gets hair transplant done in Srinagar</a><h2>CM Suvendu Adhikari targets Jahangir&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, CM Suvendu Adhikari also took aim at Jahangir, who had compared himself to the smuggler-turned-strongman character from the film ‘Pushpa: The Rise’.&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Diamond Harbour, Adhikari said, “Where is that Pushpa — the dacoit? He is not seen anywhere now. The National Human Rights Commission declared 19 persons as notorious criminals in 2021. Jahangir was one of them. Leave him to me. I will take care of him.”&nbsp;

Trinamool distanced itself from Jahanagir Khan’s decision to not contest the May 21 bypoll. It said Jahangir’s decision to withdraw from Falta repoll is not of the party. It alleged that since the election results were declared, more than 100 party workers have been arrested in Falta alone.

Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan made a shocking announcement on Tuesday, just two days before polling, and said that he is withdrawing his nomination and will not contest the Falta bypoll. Jahangir Khan cited Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s special package announcement for the constituency as the reason. “My objective is to ensure peace and security in Falta, and to foster its maximum possible development. My vision was ‘Sonar Falta’. The chief minister has said that a special package would be announced for Falta. That is why I am stepping aside from contesting the repoll,” Khan said.

Trinamool distanced itself from Jahanagir Khan’s decision to not contest the May 21 bypoll. It said Jahangir’s decision to withdraw from Falta repoll is not of the party. It alleged that since the election results were declared, more than 100 party workers have been arrested in Falta alone.

‘Pushpa bows’: Jahangir Khan pulls out of Falta contest 2 days before repoll; Trinamool says ‘succumbed to pressure’

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) party claimed in the Supreme Court on Monday that voter deletions in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls impacted the results in certain assembly constituencies in the recent West Bengal election. The claim was made during a hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymlaya Bagchi.&nbsp;&nbsp;TMC leader and senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee submitted that the BJP’s winning margin over the TMC in 31 constituencies was less than the number of persons deleted in the SIR adjudication process.He further said that in many cases, the deletions and the loss margin were almost the same.&nbsp;Banerjee pointed out that one TMC candidate lost by 862 votes in a constituency where over 5,432 voters were removed from the rolls for adjudication. He claimed that the vote gap between the TMC and the BJP was nearly 32 lakhs, and nearly 35 lakh appeals were pending before the appellate tribunals.&nbsp;He also referred to an earlier observation made by Justice Bagchi that if the winning margin was less than the number of deleted voters, then the matter may require judicial examination.&nbsp;<h2>EC cites data, says TMC won 5 seats with highest deletions</h2>&nbsp;However, the Election Commission referred to its own data to claim the reverse. It said some constituencies that saw the highest number of voter deletions in the Malda and Murshidabad belt voted in favour of the Trinamool.It said Sujapur recorded 1.50 lakh deletions followed by Raghunathganj with 1.30 lakh, Samserganj with 1.25 lakh, Ratua with 1.23 lakh and Suti with 1.20 lakh, but all five were won by the Trinamool Congress.The BJP eventually won 207 of the state’s 294 seats.&nbsp;<h2>File fresh applications regarding claims: Top court</h2>&nbsp;The Supreme Court bench said that former chief minister Mamata Banerjee and others can file fresh applications regarding their claims.&nbsp;“Whatever you want to say about results...which may have materially affected because of deletions which are under adjudication...that requires an independent Interlocutory Application (IA),” Justice Bagchi said.Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy told the bench that at the present rate, the appellate tribunals will take at least 4 years to dispose of the appeals. The CJI said that the priority will be to ensure that appeals are decided expeditiously.&nbsp;“We indicated to you...subsequent event: you are at liberty to file an IA. Mr Naidu (the EC lawyer)’s objection will come as a counter. We will look into it and pass the order. On pendency of appeals - report from Hon’ble CJ required...to take stock in what timeline they can be resolved,” Justice Bagchi added.

Trinamool Congress MP and senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee submitted in court that the BJP’s winning margin over the TMC in 31 constituencies was less than the number of deletions and that the vote gap between TMC and BJP was nearly 32 lakhs, while nearly 35 lakh appeals were pending.

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) party claimed in the Supreme Court on Monday that voter deletions in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls impacted the results in certain assembly constituencies in the recent West Bengal election. The claim was made during a hearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymlaya Bagchi. TMC leader and senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee submitted that the BJP’s winning margin over the TMC in 31 constituencies was less than the number of persons deleted in the SIR adjudication process. He further said that in many cases, the deletions and the loss margin were almost the same. Banerjee pointed out that one TMC candidate lost by 862 votes in a constituency where over 5,432 voters were removed from the rolls for adjudication. He claimed that the vote gap between the TMC and the BJP was nearly 32 lakhs, and nearly 35 lakh appeals were pending before the appellate tribunals. He also referred to an earlier observation made by Justice Bagchi that if the winning margin was less than the number of deleted voters, then the matter may require judicial examination. EC cites data, says TMC won 5 seats with highest deletions However, the Election Commission referred to its own data to claim the reverse. It said some constituencies that saw the highest number of voter deletions in the Malda and Murshidabad belt voted in favour of the Trinamool. It said Sujapur recorded 1.50 lakh deletions followed by Raghunathganj with 1.30 lakh, Samserganj with 1.25 lakh, Ratua with 1.23 lakh and Suti with 1.20 lakh, but all five were won by the Trinamool Congress. The BJP eventually won 207 of the state’s 294 seats. File fresh applications regarding claims: Top court The Supreme Court bench said that former chief minister Mamata Banerjee and others can file fresh applications regarding their claims. “Whatever you want to say about results...which may have materially affected because of deletions which are under adjudication...that requires an independent Interlocutory Application (IA),” Justice Bagchi said. Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy told the bench that at the present rate, the appellate tribunals will take at least 4 years to dispose of the appeals. The CJI said that the priority will be to ensure that appeals are decided expeditiously. “We indicated to you...subsequent event: you are at liberty to file an IA. Mr Naidu (the EC lawyer)’s objection will come as a counter. We will look into it and pass the order. On pendency of appeals - report from Hon’ble CJ required...to take stock in what timeline they can be resolved,” Justice Bagchi added.

Trinamool Congress MP and senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee submitted in court that the BJP’s winning margin over the TMC in 31 constituencies was less than the number of deletions and that the vote gap between TMC and BJP was nearly 32 lakhs, while nearly 35 lakh appeals were pending.

Mamata claims SIR influenced Bengal election results; Supreme Court says file fresh plea

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee on Monday (May 4) alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured its massive lead through irregularities, claiming that more than 100 seats were “looted” and terming the outcome an “immoral” and “illegal” victory.&nbsp;Addressing reporters, Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), calling it biased. “More than 100 seats, the BJP looted. The Election Commission is the BJP's commission. I complained to the CO and also Manoj Agrawal, but they are not doing anything. Do you think this is a victory? It is an immoral victory, not a moral victory,” she said.&nbsp;She further alleged that the conduct of the ECI, along with the role of Central Forces and the involvement of the Prime Minister and Home Minister, was “totally illegal”, adding, “It is loot, loot, loot. We will bounce back.”<h2>Allegations of irregularities at counting centres</h2>Banerjee also claimed serious irregularities during the counting process. She alleged that violence broke out after 3 pm and said she was physically attacked. “From 3 pm onwards, they have been beating us. I was hit. CCTV was switched off. None of our agents was allowed inside,” she said.&nbsp;According to her, despite assurances from the District Officer that party agents would be permitted inside the counting centre, they were denied entry, and officials later became unavailable. She said she had raised complaints at multiple levels.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-keralam-has-talent-potential-rahul-gandhi-senior-leaders-hail-congress-led-udf-victory-1777904941602">'Keralam has talent, potential': Rahul Gandhi, Senior leaders hail Congress-led UDF victory</a><h2>BJP heads for sweeping victory</h2>Even as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) raised allegations, trends from the Election Commission of India showed the BJP on course for a sweeping victory in West Bengal. The party is leading in or has won 204 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark.&nbsp;TMC is significantly behind, with 13 seats won and leads in 70 others, taking its tally to 83. In a key contest, Mamata Banerjee is trailing BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur by 563 votes after 16 rounds of counting.&nbsp;The BJP’s performance marks a historic political shift in the state, where it was once a marginal force. The party had secured 77 seats in the previous Assembly election and has now expanded its footprint significantly through an aggressive campaign and targeted outreach.&nbsp;The outcome also holds symbolic importance as West Bengal is the home state of Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

Banerjee also alleged serious irregularities during the counting process, claiming that violence broke out after 3 pm and that she was physically attacked.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee on Monday (May 4) alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured its massive lead through irregularities, claiming that more than 100 seats were “looted” and terming the outcome an “immoral” and “illegal” victory. Addressing reporters, Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), calling it biased. “More than 100 seats, the BJP looted. The Election Commission is the BJP's commission. I complained to the CO and also Manoj Agrawal, but they are not doing anything. Do you think this is a victory? It is an immoral victory, not a moral victory,” she said. She further alleged that the conduct of the ECI, along with the role of Central Forces and the involvement of the Prime Minister and Home Minister, was “totally illegal”, adding, “It is loot, loot, loot. We will bounce back.” Allegations of irregularities at counting centres Banerjee also claimed serious irregularities during the counting process. She alleged that violence broke out after 3 pm and said she was physically attacked. “From 3 pm onwards, they have been beating us. I was hit. CCTV was switched off. None of our agents was allowed inside,” she said. According to her, despite assurances from the District Officer that party agents would be permitted inside the counting centre, they were denied entry, and officials later became unavailable. She said she had raised complaints at multiple levels. Also Read: 'Keralam has talent, potential': Rahul Gandhi, Senior leaders hail Congress-led UDF victory BJP heads for sweeping victory Even as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) raised allegations, trends from the Election Commission of India showed the BJP on course for a sweeping victory in West Bengal. The party is leading in or has won 204 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark. TMC is significantly behind, with 13 seats won and leads in 70 others, taking its tally to 83. In a key contest, Mamata Banerjee is trailing BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur by 563 votes after 16 rounds of counting. The BJP’s performance marks a historic political shift in the state, where it was once a marginal force. The party had secured 77 seats in the previous Assembly election and has now expanded its footprint significantly through an aggressive campaign and targeted outreach. The outcome also holds symbolic importance as West Bengal is the home state of Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

Banerjee also alleged serious irregularities during the counting process, claiming that violence broke out after 3 pm and that she was physically attacked.

'Immoral victory': TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee alleges BJP 'looted' over 100 seats in Bengal

The Trinamool Congress party alleged on Thursday that the BJP and the Election Commission in West Bengal were tampering with the EVMs. The party shared a CCTV video of the EVM strong room in Kolkata and accused the BJP workers of trying to manipulate the votes in the absence of any relevant authority.&nbsp;The Election Commission responded to the allegations and issued an official statement sharing the security measures taken for a fair election counting. The Election Commission said that the strong rooms are closed and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.&nbsp;TMC leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh protested at Netaji Indoor Stadium, where the EVM strong room has been set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-exit-poll-predictions-made-at-bjp-s-behest-to-demoralise-tmc-workers-alleges-mamata-claims-to-win-two-thirds-majority-1777560531634">‘Exit poll predictions made at BJP’s behest to demoralise TMC workers,’ alleges Mamata, claims to win two-thirds majority</a>&nbsp;The TMC said in a post on X that CCTV footage showed ballot boxes being opened without the presence of any relevant party stakeholders, alleging gross electoral fraud carried out in active collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Election Commission released a detailed statement, saying, “With reference to video being circulated on social media handles, there are 7 AC strong rooms inside the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. They all have been duly closed and sealed in the presence of Candidates/Election agents and General Observer after completion of poll yesterday. Last Strong room was closed in the morning around 5.15 am.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-foreigners-have-no-place-in-gulf-except-at-the-bottom-of-its-waters-says-mojtaba-khamenei-in-menacing-warning-to-us-1777550052404">‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US</a>&nbsp;“⁠All strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed. ⁠There is another strong room in the same premise for Postal ballot wherein we have kept AC-wise polled ballots as done by different polling personnel and ETBPS. We had notified all Observers, ROs and requested ROs to inform their candidates and agents about this. ⁠ROs informed the political parties by mail,” it added.&nbsp;“The main strong rooms are safely secured and locked. The same was duly shown to Shashi Panja, Kunal Ghosh and Kali from BJP.”&nbsp;The EC further said, “⁠The segregation of the ballot was taking place in the corridor of strong rooms from 4pm.”

The Election Commission denied the tampering charges and released a detailed statement saying all strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.

The Trinamool Congress party alleged on Thursday that the BJP and the Election Commission in West Bengal were tampering with the EVMs. The party shared a CCTV video of the EVM strong room in Kolkata and accused the BJP workers of trying to manipulate the votes in the absence of any relevant authority. The Election Commission responded to the allegations and issued an official statement sharing the security measures taken for a fair election counting. The Election Commission said that the strong rooms are closed and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence. TMC leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh protested at Netaji Indoor Stadium, where the EVM strong room has been set up. Also Read: ‘Exit poll predictions made at BJP’s behest to demoralise TMC workers,’ alleges Mamata, claims to win two-thirds majority The TMC said in a post on X that CCTV footage showed ballot boxes being opened without the presence of any relevant party stakeholders, alleging gross electoral fraud carried out in active collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission. The Election Commission released a detailed statement, saying, “With reference to video being circulated on social media handles, there are 7 AC strong rooms inside the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. They all have been duly closed and sealed in the presence of Candidates/Election agents and General Observer after completion of poll yesterday. Last Strong room was closed in the morning around 5.15 am.” Also Read: ‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US “⁠All strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed. ⁠There is another strong room in the same premise for Postal ballot wherein we have kept AC-wise polled ballots as done by different polling personnel and ETBPS. We had notified all Observers, ROs and requested ROs to inform their candidates and agents about this. ⁠ROs informed the political parties by mail,” it added. “The main strong rooms are safely secured and locked. The same was duly shown to Shashi Panja, Kunal Ghosh and Kali from BJP.” The EC further said, “⁠The segregation of the ballot was taking place in the corridor of strong rooms from 4pm.”

The Election Commission denied the tampering charges and released a detailed statement saying all strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.&nbsp;

TMC alleges EVM tampering in Kolkata strongroom, shares video; EC rebuts charge

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday ripped into the Trinamool Congress party, saying it has betrayed its own slogan of ‘Maa, Mati, Manush’ during its rule in West Bengal. “Ma is crying, ‘maati’ is with infiltrators, and ‘maanush’ is forced to migrate," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Bangaon ahead of the second phase of the election in Bengal, PM Modi hit out at the key constituency of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, listing sexual assaults on women since the party “came to power 15 years ago”.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From Bangaon to Barrackpore, several jute mills and factories have shut down over the past 15 years. In West Bengal, only the TMC-backed syndicate, cut-money and commission raj have flourished. <a href="https://t.co/eWKSPdhiAi">pic.twitter.com/eWKSPdhiAi</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2048372597226651728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-petitions-rajya-sabha-chairman-seeking-termination-of-7-mps-who-switched-to-bjp-1777201688283">AAP sends petition to Rajya Sabha chairman seeking termination of 7 MPs who switched to BJP</a>&nbsp;The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, the PM said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from the state capital.&nbsp;The BJP has been targeting women voters since the 2024 Lok Sabha election when the sexual exploitation of women in Sandeshkhali hit the headlines.&nbsp;PM Modi said on Sunday that “every sister and daughter of Bengal has now risen against the merciless Trinamool government and we saw a glimpse of this in the first phase of voting.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anna-hazare-holds-aap-leadership-responsible-for-exit-of-raghav-chadha-6-other-mps-1777121786506">Anna Hazare holds AAP leadership responsible for exit of Raghav Chadha, 6 other MPs</a><h2>‘This merciless govt protects the goons and blames daughters’</h2>&nbsp;“Every day, there are reports of rape, gang rape, and murder. In their 15-year reign of lawlessness, many major incidents of rape and murder have occurred: the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder, Kasba Law College rape, Park Street gang rape, Hanskhali rape and murder, Kamduni gang rape, Durgapur Medical College rape case,” he said.&nbsp;“And in most cases, Trinamool leaders are involved... This merciless government protects the goons and, instead, blames the daughters... After June 4, there will be an account of every goon, every oppressor, and every corrupt person of Trinamool Congress,” PM added.&nbsp;Women have been supporters of Bengal CM, who introduced a number of schemes for them over the years, including Lakshmir Bhandar (monthly cash transfers), Kanyashree (financial assistance for education), Rupashree (assistance for wedding) and vocational training under ‘Muktir Alo Yojana’.&nbsp;<h2>Record voter turnout shows people’s anger, says Modi</h2>&nbsp;Addressing a public gathering in Haripal, PM Narendra Modi said, “This time Bengal will break all records of voting, and my brothers and sisters of Bengal have demonstrated this on April 23... Those who couldn't gauge the mood of the people are very surprised, and for some, it has completely ruined their sleep.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-of-energy-grab-says-iran-and-venezuela-military-actions-only-about-oil-1777115468087">Russia accuses US of energy grab, says Iran and Venezuela military actions only ‘about oil’</a><h2>PM invokes ‘Mother Durga’ imagery</h2>&nbsp;“For 15 years, TMC intimidated the people of Bengal. But these people forgot one thing. When oppression reaches its limit, the public takes the form of Mother Durga and immerses injustice. Today, the surging crowds at every booth in Bengal are saying, ‘Fear out, trust in’,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">আজ বনগাঁ থেকে ডঙ্কা বাজিয়ে অনুপ্রবেশকারীদেরও আমি এই হুঁশিয়ারি দিতে চাই... <a href="https://t.co/Pq0ycgxESa">pic.twitter.com/Pq0ycgxESa</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2048406538658951314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-s-defence-minister-sadio-camara-killed-in-garrison-town-of-kati-amid-coordinated-attacks-across-nation-1777208275226">Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara killed in garrison town of Kati amid coordinated attacks across nation</a><h2>‘Leave before Phase 2 polling’: PM warns infiltrators</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also raised the issue of illegal infiltration while addressing an election rally. “I warn infiltrators to leave this country before 2nd phase of Bengal polls, else they will be thrown out after the results.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Bengal voted overwhelmingly in the first phase, with the turnout figure crossing 91 per cent. The next phase of polling will be held on April 29 and the counting of votes will be held on May 4.&nbsp;

The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, PM Narendra Modi said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from Kolkata.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday ripped into the Trinamool Congress party, saying it has betrayed its own slogan of ‘Maa, Mati, Manush’ during its rule in West Bengal. “Ma is crying, ‘maati’ is with infiltrators, and ‘maanush’ is forced to migrate," he added. Addressing a rally in Bangaon ahead of the second phase of the election in Bengal, PM Modi hit out at the key constituency of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, listing sexual assaults on women since the party “came to power 15 years ago”.

The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, PM Narendra Modi said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from Kolkata.

‘Maa’ crying, ‘maati’ with infiltrators, ‘maanush’ forced to migrate’: PM Modi slams TMC in rallies across Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (April 19) intensified his attack on the Trinamool Congress ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, accusing it of corruption and warning its alleged “goons and syndicates” to surrender.&nbsp;Addressing a BJP rally in Bishnupur, Modi said, “I am giving one last chance to all TMC goons, syndicates, and corrupt elements. Surrender at your nearest police station before April 29. No one will be spared after May 4. The mafia of Bishnupur and TMC's syndicate, listen carefully, this will no longer be tolerated.”&nbsp;He combined the attack with a strong welfare pitch aimed at women voters, a key electoral constituency in the state. “The safety of sisters and your prosperity are the priorities of the BJP. Even now, due to the corruption of the TMC government, the women of Bengal do not receive the benefits they receive under the BJP government in neighbouring states of Assam, Tripura, Odisha and Bihar,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Promising benefits if the BJP comes to power, Modi added, “If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations.”&nbsp;Highlighting housing and direct financial assistance, he said, “The BJP government in Bengal will provide assistance of up to 1.5 lakh rupees to women under the PM Awas Yojana to build permanent homes. There's a lot of buzz right now about the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card.' Every sister in Bengal is very happy about it; through this, every sister in Bengal will receive 36,000 rupees every year.”&nbsp;With polling scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29 and counting on May 4, Modi also addressed a rally in Medinipur, urging voters to elect a BJP “double-engine” government. He promised direct benefits to farmers and the elimination of middlemen.“Make a BJP CM here, and then the PM and CM together will directly deposit Rs 9,000 of the Kisan Samman Nidhi into every farmer's account. TMC's brokers will also be driven out of Bengal's markets, so that farmers can get fair prices for their produce. This is Modi's guarantee,” he said.&nbsp;He further assured accountability under a BJP government. “I have come to assure you that the BJP government will work for the welfare and development of all. But it will hold the oppressors and looters fully accountable. The accounting will be done meticulously, one by one,” he said.&nbsp;Focusing on economic potential, particularly in fisheries, Modi promised a “Blue Revolution” in the state. “Double-engine government will expand the Blue Revolution. The BJP govt will make Bengal self-reliant in the production of fish. In the last decade, record production of fish has been recorded in BJP-ruled states. In Bihar, fish production has doubled, and in Odisha, it has increased more than 150%,” he said.&nbsp;Stepping up his criticism of the Mamata Banerjee-led government, Modi alleged entrenched corruption, saying, “In 15 years, they have earned a PhD in looting.”

Promising benefits if the BJP comes to power, Modi added, “If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (April 19) intensified his attack on the Trinamool Congress ahead of the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, accusing it of corruption and warning its alleged “goons and syndicates” to surrender. Addressing a BJP rally in Bishnupur, Modi said, “I am giving one last chance to all TMC goons, syndicates, and corrupt elements. Surrender at your nearest police station before April 29. No one will be spared after May 4. The mafia of Bishnupur and TMC's syndicate, listen carefully, this will no longer be tolerated.” He combined the attack with a strong welfare pitch aimed at women voters, a key electoral constituency in the state. “The safety of sisters and your prosperity are the priorities of the BJP. Even now, due to the corruption of the TMC government, the women of Bengal do not receive the benefits they receive under the BJP government in neighbouring states of Assam, Tripura, Odisha and Bihar,” he said. Promising benefits if the BJP comes to power, Modi added, “If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations.” Highlighting housing and direct financial assistance, he said, “The BJP government in Bengal will provide assistance of up to 1.5 lakh rupees to women under the PM Awas Yojana to build permanent homes. There's a lot of buzz right now about the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card.' Every sister in Bengal is very happy about it; through this, every sister in Bengal will receive 36,000 rupees every year.” With polling scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29 and counting on May 4, Modi also addressed a rally in Medinipur, urging voters to elect a BJP “double-engine” government. He promised direct benefits to farmers and the elimination of middlemen. “Make a BJP CM here, and then the PM and CM together will directly deposit Rs 9,000 of the Kisan Samman Nidhi into every farmer's account. TMC's brokers will also be driven out of Bengal's markets, so that farmers can get fair prices for their produce. This is Modi's guarantee,” he said. He further assured accountability under a BJP government. “I have come to assure you that the BJP government will work for the welfare and development of all. But it will hold the oppressors and looters fully accountable. The accounting will be done meticulously, one by one,” he said. Focusing on economic potential, particularly in fisheries, Modi promised a “Blue Revolution” in the state. “Double-engine government will expand the Blue Revolution. The BJP govt will make Bengal self-reliant in the production of fish. In the last decade, record production of fish has been recorded in BJP-ruled states. In Bihar, fish production has doubled, and in Odisha, it has increased more than 150%,” he said. Stepping up his criticism of the Mamata Banerjee-led government, Modi alleged entrenched corruption, saying, “In 15 years, they have earned a PhD in looting.”

Promising benefits if the BJP comes to power, Modi added, “If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations.”

PM Modi issues ‘last chance’ warning to TMC ‘goons’, promises welfare push ahead of Bengal polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (April 11) launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) at a campaign rally in West Bengal, saying the assembly poll battle in the state is "to defeat fear" and move Bengal forward on trust, as the BJP intensifies its push ahead of the state elections.&nbsp;Addressing the rally, Modi reiterated the BJP's promise of implementing the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission in West Bengal, a key demand of state government employees that the TMC administration has long resisted acting on.&nbsp;"This is a battle to defeat fear; this is a battle to move Bengal forward on trust. Today I have come to assure you that the reign of TMC's fear is now coming to an end... the shop of TMC's lies and loot is now about to shut down. Fear will leave Bengal, now trust will come to Bengal," he said.&nbsp;Modi also took aim at TMC's attempts to expand beyond its home state, pointing to the party's poor showing in recent elections outside Bengal. "It went to contest in Tripura, it went to contest in Assam, and it went to contest in Goa....their dishonesty and thuggery don't work...the TMC can't win outside Bengal because they have no vision, no ideas, no policies, no intentions," he said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing a separate campaign rally in the state on the same day, trained his fire on what he called the TMC's record of systematic corruption. Shah listed a series of scams under the Mamata Banerjee government, including the teacher recruitment scam, cow smuggling scam, ration scam, and coal smuggling scam, and promised accountability if the BJP came to power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seychelles-turns-to-india-for-support-as-west-asia-war-hits-tourism-and-supply-lines-1775919087517">Seychelles turns to India for support as West Asia war hits tourism and supply lines</a>&nbsp;"Mamata Banerjee has put the entire Bengal in the fire of corruption. Teacher recruitment scam, municipal corporation recruitment scam, cow smuggling scam, ration scam, MGNREGA scam, PM Awas scam, coal smuggling scam... the TMC government has carried out numerous such scams. After the BJP government comes to power, not a single corrupt person will be spared; everyone will be held accountable," he said.&nbsp;Shah also promised to include the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, a long-standing demand of the Kurmi community in Bengal and Jharkhand, and said a BJP government would implement the Uniform Civil Code in the state. "Bring a BJP government, and we will implement a Uniform Civil Code with one law for both Hindus and Muslims. Nobody will be able to marry 4 times," he added.&nbsp;West Bengal, which last went to polls in 2021 when the TMC swept back to power defeating a strong BJP challenge, is expected to hold assembly elections in 2026. The BJP has been ramping up its campaign in the state, with senior central leaders making repeated visits in recent weeks.

Addressing the rally, Modi reiterated the BJP's promise of implementing the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission in West Bengal, a key demand of state government employees that the TMC administration has long resisted acting on.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (April 11) launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) at a campaign rally in West Bengal, saying the assembly poll battle in the state is "to defeat fear" and move Bengal forward on trust, as the BJP intensifies its push ahead of the state elections. Addressing the rally, Modi reiterated the BJP's promise of implementing the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission in West Bengal, a key demand of state government employees that the TMC administration has long resisted acting on. "This is a battle to defeat fear; this is a battle to move Bengal forward on trust. Today I have come to assure you that the reign of TMC's fear is now coming to an end... the shop of TMC's lies and loot is now about to shut down. Fear will leave Bengal, now trust will come to Bengal," he said. Modi also took aim at TMC's attempts to expand beyond its home state, pointing to the party's poor showing in recent elections outside Bengal. "It went to contest in Tripura, it went to contest in Assam, and it went to contest in Goa....their dishonesty and thuggery don't work...the TMC can't win outside Bengal because they have no vision, no ideas, no policies, no intentions," he said. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, addressing a separate campaign rally in the state on the same day, trained his fire on what he called the TMC's record of systematic corruption. Shah listed a series of scams under the Mamata Banerjee government, including the teacher recruitment scam, cow smuggling scam, ration scam, and coal smuggling scam, and promised accountability if the BJP came to power. Also Read: Seychelles turns to India for support as West Asia war hits tourism and supply lines "Mamata Banerjee has put the entire Bengal in the fire of corruption. Teacher recruitment scam, municipal corporation recruitment scam, cow smuggling scam, ration scam, MGNREGA scam, PM Awas scam, coal smuggling scam... the TMC government has carried out numerous such scams. After the BJP government comes to power, not a single corrupt person will be spared; everyone will be held accountable," he said. Shah also promised to include the Kurmali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, a long-standing demand of the Kurmi community in Bengal and Jharkhand, and said a BJP government would implement the Uniform Civil Code in the state. "Bring a BJP government, and we will implement a Uniform Civil Code with one law for both Hindus and Muslims. Nobody will be able to marry 4 times," he added. West Bengal, which last went to polls in 2021 when the TMC swept back to power defeating a strong BJP challenge, is expected to hold assembly elections in 2026. The BJP has been ramping up its campaign in the state, with senior central leaders making repeated visits in recent weeks.

Addressing the rally, Modi reiterated the BJP's promise of implementing the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission in West Bengal, a key demand of state government employees that the TMC administration has long resisted acting on.

‘TMC’s lies and loot shop will close soon’: PM Modi targets Mamata in Bengal rally

The Election Commission (EC) of India has given a stern warning &nbsp;to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) ahead of the upcoming polls, stressing that West Bengal’s assembly elections must be conducted without “fear, violence, intimidation and inducement.” The poll body also warned against any malpractice that includes booth capturing, booth jamming, and “source jamming,” a term used for obstructing voter mobilisation or access. “ECI's straight-talk to Trinamool Congress,” the election authority said in a post on X. “This time, the elections in West Bengal would surely be: Fear-free, Violence-free, Intimidation-free, Inducement-free and without any Raid, Booth Jamming and Source Jamming.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">चुनाव आयोग की तृणमूल कांग्रेस को दो टूक पश्चिम बंगाल में इस बार चुनाव: भय रहित, हिंसा रहित, धमकी रहित, प्रलोभन रहित, छापा रहित, बूथ एवं सोर्स जामिंग रहित होकर ही रहेंगे ECI&#39;s Straight-talk to Trinamool Congress This time, the Elections in West Bengal would surely be :… <a href="https://t.co/p5fM8Uu337">pic.twitter.com/p5fM8Uu337</a>&mdash; Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/2041740335609737657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier on Wednesday, a meeting between a TMC delegation and the EC turned contentious. TMC MP Derek O’Brien alleged that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar told them to “get lost” within minutes, while the EC countered that O’Brien was disruptive, shouting and attempting to prevent the CEC from speaking. During the meeting, the TMC submitted letters from Mamata Banerjee and raised objections over poll officials they claim have links to the BJP. Friction between the party and the EC has escalated over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with the TMC accusing the poll body of favouring the BJP by removing voters. TMC claimed that out of 60 lakh voters under review, 27 lakh have been deleted. The total electorate in West Bengal now stands at 7.04 crore, down from 7.66 crore before the SIR process, excluding those still under adjudication.<h3>History of violence in West Bengal during elections</h3>West Bengal has continuously experienced election-related violence over the past two decades, where hundreds of people have been killed and thousands injured during campaigns and polling. The 2021 Assembly elections were particularly severe, recording over 1,300 violent incidents, 25 deaths, and around 7,000 molestation cases were reported, according to a Call of Justice fact-finding committee report. The report also noted that the extent of violence under the TMC's tenure has frequently surpassed levels seen under the earlier Left Front government.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-utterly-shameful-and-unacceptable-priyanka-gandhi-hits-out-at-himanta-biswa-sarma-over-remarks-on-kharge-1775645609219">‘Utterly shameful and unacceptable’: Priyanka Gandhi hits out at Himanta Biswa Sarma over remarks on Kharge</a>

The Election Commission (EC) of India warned TMC against any malpractice that includes booth capturing, booth jamming, and “source jamming,” a term used for obstructing voter mobilisation or access.

The Election Commission (EC) of India has given a stern warning to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) ahead of the upcoming polls, stressing that West Bengal’s assembly elections must be conducted without “fear, violence, intimidation and inducement.” The poll body also warned against any malpractice that includes booth capturing, booth jamming, and “source jamming,” a term used for obstructing voter mobilisation or access. “ECI's straight-talk to Trinamool Congress,” the election authority said in a post on X. “This time, the elections in West Bengal would surely be: Fear-free, Violence-free, Intimidation-free, Inducement-free and without any Raid, Booth Jamming and Source Jamming.”

The Election Commission (EC) of India warned TMC against any malpractice that includes booth capturing, booth jamming, and “source jamming,” a term used for obstructing voter mobilisation or access.

'This time, elections in WB would surely be...': EC issues stern warning to TMC ahead of Bengal polls