Kolkata, 11 June (H.S.) : Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Pratima Mondal on Thursday firmly denied reports claiming that she was part of a purported “rebel group” of MPs allegedly planning to break away from the party and align with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Addressing the media, Mondal said her name had been included in the reported list without her knowledge or consent and rejected any association with such a grouping.

“I am not part of any new group being projected by some TMC MPs. I do not know why my name has been included. I have neither signed any document nor am I connected to such an initiative in any way,” she said.

Her remarks come amid speculation over internal tensions within the TMC and reports suggesting that a section of MPs may be exploring the possibility of forming a separate parliamentary bloc.

Mondal also commented on recent political developments involving TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, noting her meetings in Delhi with senior opposition leaders, including Congress parliamentary figures, as part of broader discussions on opposition unity.

“The opposition alliance is united and will continue to fight collectively against the central government,” she said, adding that such coordination reflects a strengthening of the opposition front.

Responding to questions about the potential national role of Mamata Banerjee, Mondal said the TMC leader could play a significant role in consolidating opposition unity in the future.

She also remarked on the party’s historical ties with the Congress, stating that Banerjee began her political career in the Congress and later formed the TMC, suggesting that future political realignments should not be ruled out.

Her comments come at a time when political circles are abuzz with speculation over a possible split involving nearly 20 TMC MPs. However, Congress leader K. C. Venugopal has dismissed such reports as rumours.

According to available figures, the TMC currently holds a significant presence in the Lok Sabha from West Bengal, though one seat remains vacant, reducing its effective strength.

Reports have suggested that a group of around 20 MPs may be considering functioning as an independent parliamentary bloc, potentially extending issue-based support to the NDA in Parliament, though no formal confirmation has been made.

Constitutional provisions state that a formal split in a parliamentary party requires the backing of at least two-thirds of its members, a threshold that has fuelled speculation given the reported numbers.

However, political observers note that any such realignment, if it occurs, would have broader implications for parliamentary dynamics, even if it does not result in a formal merger with the ruling alliance.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh