BJP Gets a Boost in Bengal as Three Former TMC Rajya Sabha MPs Switch Sides

In a significant development in West Bengal politics, former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha members Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Prakash Chik Baraik formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kolkata on Thursday, marking a major political shift in the state.

The three leaders were inducted into the BJP in the presence of state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya at the party's Salt Lake office. Senior BJP leaders were also present during the programme, where Bhattacharya welcomed the new entrants by presenting them with the party flag.

The leaders had resigned from the Rajya Sabha and quit the TMC last month following the party's defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections . Their decision to join the BJP comes amid continuing political churn in the state and is being viewed as an important addition to the saffron party's leadership ranks.

Speaking on the occasion, Samik Bhattacharya said the experience and parliamentary background of the three former MPs would further strengthen the BJP's organisation and outreach across West Bengal. He expressed confidence that their entry would help the party expand its presence and connect with a wider section of people in the state.

The induction of Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Prakash Chik Baraik is expected to intensify political competition in Bengal, where the BJP and the TMC continue to position themselves for future electoral battles. Their move underscores the evolving political landscape in the state and adds a new dimension to the contest between the two major rivals.