In a fresh political controversy, former BJP MP Kirti Azad has lambasted his own party for allegedly floating a fake list of TMC MPs who are supposedly in touch with the BJP. Azad, who joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) earlier this year, termed the move as a desperate attempt to destabilize the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal.
Kirti Azad's Allegations
Taking to social media, Kirti Azad shared a screenshot of what he claimed was a doctored list circulating among BJP circles. The list purportedly named several TMC MPs who were allegedly planning to defect to the BJP. Azad wrote, "This is a fake list being floated by the BJP to create confusion and demoralize TMC workers. I urge everyone not to fall for this cheap trick." He further accused the BJP of trying to replicate its success in other states by poaching opposition MLAs and MPs.
Kalyan Banerjee's Strong Reaction
Meanwhile, senior TMC leader Kalyan Banerjee did not mince words while reacting to the development. He labeled the rebel TMC MPs as "traitors" and warned that the party would take strict action against anyone trying to weaken the organization. "Those who are in touch with the BJP are betraying the people of West Bengal. They will be exposed and dealt with accordingly," Banerjee said at a press conference in Kolkata.
Political Implications
The incident has added fuel to the already tense political atmosphere in West Bengal, where the TMC and BJP have been locked in a bitter rivalry. The TMC has accused the BJP of running a "cash-for-defection" racket, while the BJP denies any such practice. Political analysts suggest that the fake list controversy could further strain relations between the two parties ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections.
BJP's Response
The BJP, however, dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless. Party spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said, "We do not need to resort to such tactics. The TMC is panicking because it knows its house is divided. Let them first sort out their internal problems before blaming us."
As the war of words continues, all eyes are on the TMC's next move. With the 2026 assembly elections drawing closer, both parties are leaving no stone unturned to gain an upper hand in the state.
