Kolkata

Senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay on Tuesday dismissed speculation of a major split within the party, asserting that most TMC legislators remain firmly aligned with former chief minister Mamata Banerjee and that the party’s veteran leadership continues to hold organisational control.

His comments come amid reports suggesting that some TMC MLAs may be considering breaking away under the leadership of expelled legislator Ritabrata Banerjee. Political circles have been rife with speculation following alleged meetings involving dissident lawmakers at locations in Kolkata over the last few days.

Although no official confirmation has emerged, reports have suggested that anywhere between 20 and 50 MLAs could be in contact with the rebel camp. The TMC currently holds 80 seats in the 294-member West Bengal Assembly, though two legislators were expelled from the party on Monday over alleged anti-party activities.

Chattopadhyay claimed that efforts were being made by the ruling establishment to weaken the opposition through inducements and pressure tactics. According to him, some individuals were being influenced to make allegations regarding forged signatures and other issues.

“We are closely monitoring the situation. A few individuals may come under pressure, but there is no possibility of a large-scale revolt,” he said.

The Ballygunge MLA, who was nominated by the party as the Leader of the Opposition, expressed confidence that the overwhelming majority of TMC legislators would continue to stand with Mamata Banerjee.

He further maintained that the party’s experienced leadership would retain its influence over the organisation and that the Trinamool Congress, along with its iconic twin-flower symbol, would remain under Banerjee’s leadership.

The nomination of Chattopadhyay as Leader of the Opposition has, however, come under scrutiny, with the CID reportedly examining allegations related to forged signatures of certain party MLAs.

His remarks follow a video message released by Banerjee on Monday in which she accused the BJP of attempting to engineer defections within the TMC through financial incentives and political pressure.

Meanwhile, reports of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s likely visit to New Delhi later on Tuesday have added to political speculation surrounding the alleged unrest within the opposition party.

READ MORE: Dr Adeela Abdulla IAS: The officer behind systems that touch everyday lives

The developments have drawn comparisons with political crises witnessed in Maharashtra, where splits in regional parties led to major shifts in power and legal disputes over party leadership and election symbols.