West Bengal politics witnessed dramatic developments on Wednesday after a group of 59 legislators reportedly submitted a signed letter to Assembly Speaker Rathindra Bose, signalling growing support for the camp led by expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee.
The letter, delivered during the ongoing Assembly session, has intensified discussions about internal divisions within the ruling All India Trinamool Congress.
Ritabrata Camp Claims Support of 59 Legislators
According to sources, the document carries the signatures of 59 MLAs who have expressed support for the group led by Ritabrata Banerjee. The faction has also proposed a new legislative arrangement within the Assembly.
The letter reportedly names Ritabrata Banerjee for the post of Leader of Opposition, while also proposing appointments for deputy leadership positions within the legislative wing.
Show of Strength at Assembly
In a significant display of unity, legislators associated with the group arrived together at the Assembly complex to attend proceedings. The move was widely viewed as an attempt to demonstrate the numerical strength of the faction amid mounting political uncertainty.
Political observers noted that the submission of a letter backed by such a large number of lawmakers could have important implications if the support figures are officially verified.
Fresh Challenge for TMC Leadership
The latest development comes only days after the Trinamool Congress expelled Ritabrata Banerjee and another MLA, citing alleged anti-party activities.
Despite the escalating political drama, Mamata Banerjee has not yet publicly responded to the claims made by the rebel camp.
Assembly Numbers Under Spotlight
With the signatures of 59 MLAs now at the centre of the controversy, attention has shifted to whether the support claimed by the Ritabrata faction can alter the balance of power within the Assembly’s legislative structure.
Senior leaders of the ruling party have meanwhile announced separate appointments within the official legislative wing, signalling that the party leadership continues to function through its recognised organisational framework.
