In a significant political development, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad have publicly criticized a faction of rebel party Members of Parliament (MPs), accusing them of lacking political integrity and maintaining affiliations with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The TMC leaders have called for the resignation of these MPs, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to party principles.
**Allegations of Political Misconduct**
During a press conference on June 9, 2026, Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad addressed the media, expressing their concerns over the actions of the dissident MPs. They alleged that these MPs were attempting to divide the party while its members faced political challenges and harassment. Banerjee questioned the authenticity of a letter purportedly circulated by the rebel camp, noting that it had not been made public. He challenged the dissidents to demonstrate transparency by releasing the letter to the press. ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/amp/story/states/west-bengal/2026/Jun/09/tmc-brands-dissidents-traitors-says-they-have-abandoned-party-workers?utm_source=openai))
**Call for Resignations**
Drawing a parallel with former TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, who resigned after making allegations against the party, Banerjee suggested that those criticizing the organization should follow suit. He stated, “Sukhendu Sekhar Roy has resigned from the Rajya Sabha after making allegations against our party. Those who are making allegations against the party must follow the path of Sukhendu and show political morality by resigning as MPs.” ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/amp/story/states/west-bengal/2026/Jun/09/tmc-brands-dissidents-traitors-says-they-have-abandoned-party-workers?utm_source=openai)) This statement underscores the TMC leadership’s emphasis on accountability and ethical conduct within the party.
**Alleged BJP Affiliation**
The TMC leaders also highlighted a meeting between the dissident MPs and Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, which was attended by West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari. This meeting, held at Yadav’s residence, raised questions about the rebel MPs’ political affiliations. Banerjee remarked, “They may make some jugglery of words, but people are not fools. They have chan…” ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/amp/story/states/west-bengal/2026/Jun/09/tmc-brands-dissidents-traitors-says-they-have-abandoned-party-workers?utm_source=openai)) The incomplete quote suggests a critique of the rebels’ attempts to justify their actions.
**Rebel MPs’ Position**
In response to the TMC leadership’s accusations, rebel leader and Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar announced that 20 TMC MPs had decided to write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, declaring their support for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and seeking recognition as a separate faction. ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/amp/story/states/west-bengal/2026/Jun/09/tmc-brands-dissidents-traitors-says-they-have-abandoned-party-workers?utm_source=openai)) This move indicates a significant shift in the political dynamics within the TMC, with the dissident MPs aligning themselves with the BJP-led alliance.
**Political Implications**
The unfolding situation has profound implications for the TMC’s internal cohesion and its standing in West Bengal politics. The party’s leadership faces the challenge of addressing internal dissent while maintaining its political influence. The rebel MPs’ actions could alter the balance of power in the state’s political landscape, especially if their alignment with the NDA leads to a realignment of political forces.
**Conclusion**
The conflict between TMC leaders and the rebel MPs highlights the complexities of political loyalty and integrity. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor the responses of both factions and the broader political community to understand the potential shifts in West Bengal’s political environment.