A dramatic political development in West Bengal has triggered confusion after a rebel faction within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) claimed to have taken control of the party, announcing the removal of Mamata Banerjee as chairperson and the suspension of Abhishek Banerjee from key posts.
The faction, led by expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, convened a meeting in New Town, Kolkata, where around 60 MLAs and 70 councillors reportedly attended. The group declared itself the “real TMC,” appointed senior MLA Arup Roy as party chairperson, and constituted a new 30-member national working committee.
The rebels argued that under Article 20 of the party constitution, the National Working Committee (NWC) must be renewed every three years. Since the last committee was formed in February 2022, they claimed it had expired and lost legitimacy by 2026, justifying the formation of a new leadership structure.
However, the official TMC leadership rejected the move outright, calling it an “illegal comedy show” and asserting that Mamata Banerjee remains the legitimate chairperson. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh dismissed the development and confirmed that the original organisational structure remains intact, with Abhishek Banerjee continuing as National General Secretary.
Legal experts note that internal party decisions made by a breakaway group have no legal standing unless recognised by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Under the Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, only the ECI can determine which faction is the official party based on organisational strength and constitutional compliance.
The Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling in the Shiv Sena case also makes clear that disciplinary and structural powers lie with the recognised party organisation, not legislative majority alone.
Until the ECI intervenes, Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee remain the legally recognised leaders of the TMC. The rebel faction may face further legal hurdles under the Anti-Defection Law if party whips are violated.
The TMC leadership has already initiated disciplinary action, issuing show-cause notices to several members linked to the breakaway group.
For now, while the political drama continues, the legal authority of the party remains unchanged.
