After TMC’s sharp defeat in West Bengal’s assembly elections, Mamata Banerjee met contesting candidates at her Kalighat residence and urged them to rebuild the party. She said anyone who wants to quit for other parties should leave, pledging she will revive TMC “afresh.” The message came as speculation of defections grew and the party shifted to opposition. TMC won 80 seats out of 294 total, with 211 candidates losing, and Banerjee herself defeated in Bhabanipur.
West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya hit back at claims his party is a “washing machine” for defectors. He likened the BJP to holy Ganga, saying strict entry protocols decide who joins. Bhattacharya also claimed several Trinamool Congress leaders want to switch sides, but said the BJP is not accepting new members right now.
Your news, in seconds
Get the Beige app — every story in 60 words, updated hourly. Free on iOS & Android.
With the INDIA bloc facing fresh electoral setbacks and internal rifts, opposition parties are tightening their guard against defections and realignments. Morale is reportedly strained as leaders weigh the BJP’s rising momentum and perceived “expansionist” push, while NDA allies signal unwavering backing. The result: growing dismay and deeper division within opposition ranks.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann escalated the AAP-BJP fight, calling AAP Rajya Sabha members who joined the BJP “traitors.” He accused the BJP of trying to destabilize AAP while dismissing the departures as insignificant compared with public loyalty in Punjab. Mann suggested the party’s strength remains rooted in voters, not a few who left.
Swipe through stories, personalise your feed, and save articles for later — all on the app.
