TMC Facing Major Crisis in West Bengal: Rebel Leader Rtabrata Banerjee Named LoP, Abhishek Blamed for Downfall

Brief By Newsbrief / 7:04 PM on 03 Jun 2026

In a major political turnaround in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee has suffered a severe blow within her own party. The West Bengal Assembly Speaker has officially recognized rebel TMC MLA Rtabrata Banerjee as the new Leader of the Opposition (LoP). Following the announcement, Rtabrata Banerjee claimed that he commands the active support of at least 60 sitting TMC MLAs, exposing a deep rift and growing internal rebellion within the ruling party.

Expelled TMC leader Sandipan Saha confirmed the development, stating that the rebel faction has formally submitted their official correspondence to the Assembly Speaker. He added that the designated chamber for the Leader of the Opposition has already been officially allotted, and the newly appointed LoP has commenced his legislative duties from the office. In a notable statement, Saha remarked that the faction still respects Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and wishes for her to continue acting as their guide and advisor. He emphasized that her counsel remains vital for them to run the party effectively inside the Assembly alongside the LoP and the Chief Whip.

Meanwhile, the dissident camp launched a scathing attack against TMC National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, holding him directly accountable for the current political turmoil. Sandipan Saha openly stated that the party's deteriorating condition and ongoing crisis are a direct result of Abhishek Banerjee's leadership failures. Turning up the heat, Saha added a sharp jibe, stating that if leadership is quick to take absolute credit when things go well, they must also step up and accept full responsibility when the party faces a collapse.