'Trinamoolisation Of BJP Won't Happen': Samik Bhattacharya Clarifies Party's Call On TMC Rebels
'Trinamoolisation Of BJP Won't Happen': Samik Bhattacharya Clarifies Party's Call On TMC Rebels Published By, Last Updated: June 02, 2026, 16:21 IST His remarks come
'Trinamoolisation Of BJP Won't Happen': Samik Bhattacharya Clarifies Party's Call On TMC Rebels Published By, Last Updated: June 02, 2026, 16:21 IST His remarks come amid growing speculation that several leaders and legislators from the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC could switch sides following the party’s defeat in the last poll. BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya. (Image: PTI) West Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya on Tuesday made it clear that the party will not induct leaders from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), saying there will be no “Trinamoolisation" of the BJP despite speculation over possible defections. “Our doors are closed for TMC. We reached the number 207 without importing anyone. The people voted against the leaders of TMC. Our political strategy this time started from the bottom," Bhattacharya said. The BJP leader further noted, “How can we include the people who are tainted in our party? Trinamoolisation of BJP will never happen." His remarks come amid growing speculation that several leaders and legislators from the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC could switch sides following the party’s defeat in the last West Bengal Assembly elections.
Speculation Over TMC Defections While there has been no official confirmation of any defections, political circles in the state have been abuzz with reports that between 20 and 50 TMC legislators could be in touch with a rebel camp. The speculation has triggered discussions about the future of the opposition party and the possibility of a split within its ranks. The rumours gained strength after reports emerged of meetings involving dissident MLAs at a Kolkata hotel and the MLA Hostel in recent days. The alleged rebel group is believed to be led by expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee. The BJP secured a historic victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, winning 207 seats and forming the government in West Bengal for the first time. The TMC was reduced to 80 seats in the 294-member Assembly. The developments have drawn comparisons with political crises in other states, including Maharashtra, where splits within regional parties led to battles over party control, election symbols and government formation.
TMC Rejects Rebellion Claims Senior TMC leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, however, dismissed fears of a major rebellion and insisted that most legislators would remain loyal to Mamata Banerjee. “There may be a few who succumb to pressure, but there is no fear that a large rebellion will take place. The majority of MLAs will remain with Mamata Banerjee, and the old guard will continue to be firmly in control of the Trinamool Congress," he said. Chattopadhyay also accused the BJP government of trying to destabilise the opposition through pressure and inducements. His comments came a day after Mamata Banerjee alleged that the BJP was attempting to break the TMC. The political uncertainty has intensified after the TMC expelled MLAs Sandipan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee for alleged anti-party activities on Monday. The move exposed growing cracks within the party’s legislative wing less than a month after its election defeat and further fuelled speculation about a possible rebellion within the opposition camp.
(With inputs from agencies) News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers,... Read More Location: West Bengal, India, India First Published: June 02, 2026, 16:02 IST News india 'Trinamoolisation Of BJP Won't Happen': Samik Bhattacharya Clarifies Party's Call On TMC Rebels Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
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