Twenty MPs who left the Trinamool Congress joined the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) and pledged allegiance to the BJP‑led NDA. The inaugural meeting covered FTAs, trade, and fisheries, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance.

Key Takeaways

  • 20 MPs defected from TMC to join NCPI
  • They affirmed loyalty to the BJP‑led NDA
  • Discussions focused on trade, FTAs and fisheries

New Delhi (PTI) – On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, twenty NCPI MPs attended the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Parliamentary Party meeting for the first time. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Union Ministers were present at the G.M.C. Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament Library Building.

Having broken away from the All India Trinamool Congress, these MPs now sit separately in the Lok Sabha, awaiting formal recognition from Speaker Om Birla. Their presence signaled a clear shift toward the NDA, with discussions ranging from free‑trade agreements to agricultural concerns.

NCPI MP Sayoni Ghosh said, “Participating in the NDA meeting was enriching and informative in the presence of Prime Minister Modi. Today we discussed FTAs – a positive dialogue.” She also urged support for the upcoming anti‑paper‑leak bill.

Another lawmaker, Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, noted that this was the first invitation for twenty NCPI MPs to the NDA’s “Mangal Milan” gathering. “We learned about the country’s progress on FTAs and farmers’ issues, which will help us explain these matters to the public,” she added.

Union Minister Shantanu Thakur highlighted that the meeting centered on two themes: trade and fisheries. He said extensive presentations were made on growth achieved in both sectors.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the NCPI’s alignment with the NDA reshapes India’s parliamentary dynamics, giving a modest party a platform within the ruling coalition. This could influence upcoming legislative debates and election strategies.

"The NCPI’s entry into the NDA underscores the fluid nature of Indian coalition politics," says political analyst Dr. Ajay Singh.
Did You Know?: The NCPI was founded in 2019 and has yet to receive official recognition in Parliament.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What key issues will NCPI MPs focus on within the NDA?

A: They are expected to prioritize free‑trade agreements, agricultural reforms, trade expansion, and fisheries development.

Q2: Will the NCPI receive formal parliamentary status?

A: Recognition depends on the Speaker’s decision and broader coalition dynamics, but the NDA alliance improves its prospects.