State Bureau, Kolkata: Following the Bengal Assembly election, talks of discontent and factionalism within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have intensified. Speculations are now rife about major political developments regarding MLAs Ritabrata Banerjee and Sandipan Saha, who were expelled from the party following a signature controversy.
According to Jagran sources, around 50 Trinamool MLAs are in contact with these two leaders and efforts are underway to create a separate power center within the party. The controversy began with a complaint alleging that the signatures of some MLAs on a resolution supporting the Leader of the Opposition were forged.
ALSO READ: TMC Facing A Split Threat? High-Profile Meetings In Kolkata Might Trouble Mamata Banerjee
Case Registered For Forged Signature
Based on the complaint, the Assembly Secretariat filed a case, which is being investigated by the CID. Shortly after, party supremo Mamata Banerjee questioned the role of the two MLAs as their names surfaced. Thereafter, TMC expelled Ritabrata and Sandipan on charges of anti-party activities.
A New Trinamool?
Sources said that several MLAs attended a recent meeting in Kolkata. There is talk that these MLAs are preparing to declare themselves the ‘real’ Trinamool and may submit a proposal to the Speaker. However, there has been no official confirmation of this.
ALSO READ: TMC Expels Two MLAs Minutes After CM Suvendu's Allegations In Fake Signature Case | What's The Row
According to sources, Ritabrata Banerjee could be the face of this potential faction. However, the names of several senior party leaders are not being reported as part of this alleged group.
Meanwhile, the Opposition and political circles are interpreting this development as a sign of growing discontent within the TMC. If a large number of MLAs do indeed take a different stance, it could pose a new challenge to the party leadership.