West Bengal Politics: TMC Faces Internal Turmoil as MPs Rebel, Leadership Under Pressure in West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is reportedly facing one of the most challenging phases of her political career amid growing internal unrest within the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Following electoral setbacks, reports suggest divisions within the party are widening, with both legislators and MPs allegedly distancing themselves from the leadership. The situation intensified as TMC MP and party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has been asked to appear before the CID in connection with a forgery-related case, after receiving a third summons. The CID had earlier visited his residence in Kolkata’s Kalighat area and directed him to appear by 5 PM. Meanwhile, a faction of TMC MPs has claimed support of around 20 Lok Sabha members and is reportedly pushing for a separate group, although this claim has been disputed by other leaders. Senior leaders including Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad are expected to address the media, with Azad rejecting the claim of mass defection. Reports also suggest meetings between rebel MPs and political leaders in Delhi, further fueling speculation of a widening rift. In the Lok Sabha, TMC has 28 MPs, while 13 members represent the party in the Rajya Sabha, with one resignation already reported. In the West Bengal Assembly, internal factionalism is also being reported among legislators. If a significant number of MPs or MLAs formally split, questions may arise under anti-defection provisions regarding recognition of a separate group.