Mamata Banerjee Alleges BJP Pressure on TMC MLAs, Two Expelled for...

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP and police of pressuring Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLAs to defect to the BJP. In a Facebook video message, Banerjee alleged that TMC leaders are being threatened, intimidated, and even bribed in an effort to weaken her party. She dismissed these tactics as futile, asserting that such moves would only strengthen the TMC's resolve.

Banerjee also rejected allegations that senior TMC leaders are neglecting party workers, calling these claims baseless. She further accused opponents of targeting TMC workers by preventing protests and vandalizing party offices. The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid rising political tensions in the state.

In a parallel development, the TMC expelled two of its MLAs, Sandipan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee, for alleged anti-party activities. Party officials stated that the two had been skipping meetings and making statements against the TMC. This disciplinary action has added fuel to speculation about possible internal rifts, though party leaders have denied any discord.

Adding to the intrigue, a meeting called by Mamata Banerjee on May 31 saw a notably low turnout, with only 20 of the party's 80 MLAs attending. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh attributed this to preparations for upcoming protests. The TMC has announced state-wide demonstrations on June 1 and a symbolic sit-in led by Banerjee in Kolkata on June 2. These protests aim to oppose post-poll violence and eviction drives involving bulldozers.

While the BJP has not officially responded to Banerjee's allegations, the developments highlight the growing friction between the ruling TMC and its opposition in West Bengal. The situation continues to raise questions about the political dynamics within the state.