Mamata Meets Sonia as TMC Rebellion Deepens and AAP Rejects INDIA Bloc

The opposition's efforts to present a united front against the BJP have encountered fresh challenges, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) battling an internal rebellion and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) reaffirming its decision to stay out of the INDIA alliance.

The political situation took a dramatic turn after a section of TMC parliamentarians, led by senior leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar , reportedly moved to establish themselves as a separate parliamentary group while extending support to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) . The rebel camp claims to have secured the backing of around 20 Lok Sabha MPs, a number that could provide protection under anti-defection provisions if formally recognised.

The parliamentary revolt follows unrest within the party's legislative ranks in West Bengal and has emerged as one of the most serious internal crises faced by the TMC since its formation. The developments have raised concerns about the party's organisational stability following its recent electoral setback in the state.

Amid the growing turmoil, TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee met Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi on Tuesday, a day after the INDIA bloc's strategy meeting. Sources indicated that the leaders discussed the evolving political landscape, opposition coordination and the challenges confronting the TMC.

The meeting assumed significance as it came shortly after several TMC leaders either resigned or openly challenged the party leadership, fuelling speculation about further political realignments in West Bengal.

Meanwhile, the AAP signalled a clear break from the opposition alliance. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh said the party was no longer associated with the INDIA bloc and therefore had no role in its deliberations. AAP leaders also ruled out any future understanding with the Congress, citing deep political differences and past electoral rivalries.

The latest developments highlight the difficulties facing the opposition as it seeks to maintain cohesion while confronting internal divisions and shifting political equations across key states.