The political storm inside the Trinamool Congress (TMC) intensified on Tuesday after senior leaders made startling allegations against rebel MP Yusuf Pathan, claiming he had once expressed fear after being warned against taking part in protests targeting the BJP.
The controversy erupted as the rebellion within the party deepened, with a group of dissident MPs seeking recognition as a separate faction and pushing for a merger with another political outfit.
Old Parliament Incident Returns to Spotlight
The fresh row began when Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi recalled an incident from a previous Parliament session. According to him, Pathan was participating in an Opposition protest when another MP allegedly questioned why he was demonstrating against the BJP.
Mehdi claimed the conversation visibly unsettled the former cricketer, who later appeared shaken and worried. The MP alleged that Pathan was warned about possible consequences if he continued taking an aggressive stand against the ruling party.
Mahua Moitra Launches Sharp Attack
TMC leader Mahua Moitra soon entered the debate and publicly backed Mehdi’s version of events.
Moitra alleged that she had stood by Pathan when the incident occurred and expressed disappointment over his current political position. In a strongly worded response, she accused the rebel MP of betraying the party after receiving its support.
Her remarks have added a new layer of bitterness to the growing confrontation between the TMC leadership and the rebel camp.
Rebellion Deepens in TMC
The latest exchange comes at a crucial moment for the Mamata Banerjee-led party. Around 20 rebel MPs have reportedly approached Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking recognition for their separate group and supporting a merger proposal with another political formation.
The move has triggered one of the biggest internal crises faced by the TMC in recent years.
Sources indicate that the Speaker is expected to hear both sides before taking a final decision. Party leaders loyal to Mamata Banerjee have also begun preparations for a legal and political battle if the breakaway group receives recognition.
Political Battle Heads for New Phase
The rebellion is no longer limited to Parliament. Reports suggest that divisions have emerged in multiple wings of the party, increasing pressure on the leadership ahead of the Monsoon Session.
