A month after losing power in West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress faces a possible split following its electoral setback. The party had secured 41 percent of the vote. Signs of tension emerged on May 4 as results indicated defeat, with some leaders voicing criticism. Two days later at a gathering in Mamata Banerjee’s home, the former chief minister requested MLAs to applaud her nephew Abhishek Banerjee. Several senior legislators remained seated without comment. Discontent also grew over the decision not to discipline Jahangir Khan, a local figure close to Abhishek, after he withdrew from a repoll without approval. Abhishek’s response directing attention to a party statement was viewed as dismissive. Mamata Banerjee’s refusal to step down further fueled unrest. Rebel MLAs then began organizing, with Ritabrata Banerjee, recognized as Leader of the Opposition, playing a central role. After a trip to Delhi, Ritabrata held meetings in Kolkata to rally support against Abhishek’s influence while affirming loyalty to Mamata. The dispute intensified over a disputed letter to the Speaker naming a new opposition leader. Several MLAs alleged forged signatures. The party expelled Ritabrata and another legislator for anti-party actions. Mamata Banerjee claimed a plot from Delhi aimed at splitting the organization. One legislator from a minority background stressed continued support for Mamata in opposing the BJP but rejected Abhishek’s role and external consultants. Another MLA cited lack of administrative help amid local violence as reason for joining the group.
