Two-thirds formula for TMC too? Sources claim several MPs are in talks to join BJP

Political speculation intensified in West Bengal after claims emerged from political circles that several Trinamool Congress MPs and MLAs are allegedly in contact with the Bharatiya Janata Party amid discussions surrounding a possible large-scale political realignment. Sources claimed that out of Trinamool Congress’s 29 Lok Sabha MPs, nearly 18 to 20 MPs are reportedly being approached or are engaged in discussions regarding a possible shift to the BJP.

The speculation gained momentum after reports that senior Trinamool MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar attended an administrative meeting chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray has also publicly raised questions regarding the functioning of his party in recent days. Alongside MPs, reports have suggested that several Trinamool MLAs are also allegedly maintaining contact with BJP leadership in the state.

State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya recently remarked that while BJP’s doors were closed for ordinary Trinamool workers, “it has not yet been said that the doors are closed for MPs or MLAs.” The statement added further political significance to the ongoing speculation surrounding possible defections and internal dissatisfaction within the Trinamool Congress organisation following recent political developments in the state.

According to political discussions surrounding the matter, the alleged strategy is linked to anti-defection provisions under the Constitution. Under existing rules, legislators can avoid disqualification if at least two-thirds of a party’s elected members move together as a group. In the case of Trinamool Congress’s 29 Lok Sabha MPs, this threshold would require around 19 to 20 MPs to shift together. Sources claimed that discussions are allegedly continuing in an effort to reach that number.

Reports also suggested that dissatisfaction regarding election setbacks, organisational functioning and ticket distribution has contributed to unease within sections of the Trinamool Congress. Several leaders reportedly linked to the speculation were previously considered close to the party leadership. Political discussions have further intensified ahead of the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, amid claims of possible political restructuring and continued efforts by parties to strengthen their positions in West Bengal.