The Trinamool Congress (TMC) unit in Cachar district is on the verge of a mass exodus to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following the resignation of Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev from both the Upper House and the party on Wednesday.
Sushmita Dev's Resignation and Rationale
After submitting her resignation, Sushmita Dev stated, "I belong to Assam, and my heart lies in working for the interests of my own state." She confirmed meeting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and emphasized that her priority remains serving Assam. Speaking to journalists in New Delhi, she explained that having resigned from the primary membership of TMC, it was only morally appropriate to step down as a Rajya Sabha MP elected on the party's ticket.
District Unit's Response
Cachar district TMC president Rajesh Deb announced that party office-bearers, workers, and supporters are likely to resign within the next few days and join the BJP, aligning themselves with Sushmita Dev's political decision. According to Deb, Sushmita informed him of her decision over the phone a day before formally resigning from TMC. Her meeting with Chief Minister Sarma in New Delhi before submitting her resignation fueled speculation about her possible entry into the BJP.
"I believe the decision taken by Sushmita Dev is in the best interest of her supporters and the state. She felt constrained in the present situation of the party," Deb told reporters. He added that the entire district unit would follow her lead. Dismissing suggestions that Sushmita sought any political position in return, Deb said she neither joined TMC for a post nor placed any conditions before moving towards the BJP. "If I have to support BJP now, I will do so with complete sincerity," he said.
Outlook for TMC Outside West Bengal
Deb also expressed doubts about the future of TMC outside West Bengal, stating that the party's organizational condition had weakened considerably. "If the central structure of a party weakens, its branches elsewhere cannot survive for long," he remarked.
About the Author: BB Goswami is a seasoned journalist with The Times of India, reporting from Silchar. Known for his sharp political insights and grassroots coverage, he brings depth to stories from Barak Valley and beyond. His work reflects a commitment to factual reporting and amplifying voices from Assam's southern frontier.
