New Delhi

In a significant setback for the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Rajya Sabha member Sukhendu Sekhar Ray on Sunday announced his resignation from both the Upper House of Parliament and the party's primary membership.

In his resignation statement, Ray cited the outcome of the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections, describing it as a clear public verdict against the TMC's governance over the past 15 years. He alleged that the party's tenure had been marked by corruption, deteriorating law and order, poor governance, and failures in key sectors such as healthcare, education, industry, and employment.

According to Ray, voters had overwhelmingly supported the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in an effort to bring an end to what he termed a prolonged period of misgovernance in the state. He said the election results reflected public dissatisfaction with issues ranging from alleged corruption to concerns over women's safety and administrative performance.

The veteran politician also praised the newly formed BJP-led government in West Bengal, stating that it had begun implementing initiatives aimed at development and reconstruction in line with promises made during the election campaign.

“Respecting the mandate delivered by the people of West Bengal, I have decided to resign from my position as a member of the Rajya Sabha and from the primary membership of the All India Trinamool Congress,” Ray said.

His departure comes amid reports of growing unrest within the TMC following its defeat in the state elections. Political observers have been speculating about possible divisions within the party, including rumours that a number of its Lok Sabha MPs could break away.

The developments follow the recent rebellion led by MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, who was expelled from the TMC on charges of anti-party activities. Banerjee subsequently formed a separate faction in the West Bengal Assembly, reportedly backed by 58 legislators, and was later chosen as the Leader of the Opposition.

The dissident group has repeatedly criticised the leadership style of TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, blaming him for the party's disappointing electoral performance in the Assembly polls.

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Ray’s resignation is expected to intensify discussions about the future direction of the Trinamool Congress and the internal challenges facing the party in the aftermath of its electoral setback.