Three MLAs aligned with the rebel Ritabrata faction have condemned the attack on CM Mamata Banerjee, sparking intense speculation about their official return to the mainstream TMC camp.
Key Takeaways
- Three rebel MLAs—Tausif-ur-Rahman, Abdul Khalik Mollah, and Bibhas Sardar—have voiced support for Mamata Banerjee.
- The move follows an alleged attack on the CM's convoy in Halishahar, where stones and mud were thrown.
- MLA Tausif-ur-Rahman admitted that his political survival in Basirhat depends entirely on Mamata Banerjee.
- Ritabrata Banerjee maintains that his faction remains strong with 65 members.
The political landscape of West Bengal is witnessing another dramatic shift as three MLAs, who had previously distanced themselves from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to join the Ritabrata Banerjee faction, have now signaled a homecoming. Their appearance at a press conference alongside senior 'Kalighat TMC' leaders, including Sovan Deb Chattopadhyay and Kunal Ghosh, has fueled rumors of a reconciliation.
Tausif-ur-Rahman, MLA from Basirhat North, made a candid admission, stating, "Where Didi is, Tausif is. Without Didi's image, I cannot even secure ten votes in Basirhat." This statement underscores the central role of the TMC supremo in the party's grassroots electoral success. Similarly, Bibhas Sardar emphasized that since they won under the 'Twin Flowers' symbol provided by Mamata Banerjee, they must stand by her during times of crisis.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this development highlights the fragility of any alternative power center within the Trinamool Congress. Despite the formation of a parallel group under Ritabrata Banerjee, the gravitational pull of Mamata Banerjee's leadership remains absolute. The rebellion appears to be crumbling under the weight of electoral pragmatism, as MLAs realize that their legitimacy stems from the party's core leadership.
"In Bengal's political ecosystem, personal charisma often overrides organizational disputes, and Mamata Banerjee remains the sole pivot of the TMC."
However, the rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee has downplayed the event. He asserted that his numbers remain intact at 65 and challenged the 'Kalighat faction' to provide documentary proof if they believe they hold a superior majority. The tension between the two factions continues to simmer despite the public displays of unity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which MLAs are reportedly returning to Mamata Banerjee's camp?
A: Tausif-ur-Rahman, Abdul Khalik Mollah, and Bibhas Sardar have shown signs of returning after supporting the CM against recent attacks.
Q2: What triggered this sudden shift in loyalty?
A: The alleged attack on Mamata Banerjee's convoy in Halishahar provided a catalyst for the rebel MLAs to publicly condemn the violence and align themselves back with the party leadership.