TMC Crisis Triggers Fresh Political Showdown
The ongoing turmoil within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) spilled into a public confrontation on Friday after party MP Kirti Azad accused the BJP of attempting to engineer defections through what he described as “Operation Lotus”. His remarks triggered a sharp response from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, leading to a war of words between the two leaders.
The exchange comes at a time when the TMC is grappling with one of the most serious internal challenges in its history, with a large section of its parliamentary ranks openly rebelling against the party leadership.
Kirti Azad Alleges Pressure Tactics
Kirti Azad claimed that efforts were being made to weaken the TMC through political pressure and inducements. Referring to the recent resignation of Rajya Sabha member Prakash Barik and reports of meetings between rebel leaders and senior BJP figures, Azad suggested that a coordinated campaign was underway to encourage defections.
In a strongly worded statement, Azad said, “They are putting pressure by taking away my security and home guards, unfortunately for them, I am not going to succumb to their nasty tactics. Needless to add that I have received umpteen number of calls from various BJP MPs and organisational people.”
Despite the developments, Azad asserted that attempts to split the party had not succeeded and maintained that he would remain with the Trinamool Congress.
Nishikant Dubey Hits Back
Responding to the allegations, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey dismissed Azad’s claims and reminded him of their long political association.
Addressing Azad through a social media post, Dubey said, “Your ancestral village and town are in my Lok Sabha constituency of Godda, and from your booth, I have always received 99 percent of the votes from 2009 to 2024. Therefore, exercise this right. My official residence is a gift from the people of Godda.”
Dubey also noted that both leaders had served together as BJP MPs for nearly a decade and recalled his personal ties with Azad’s family.
Azad Softens Tone, Repeats ‘Operation Lotus’ Charge
While maintaining his allegations regarding attempts to destabilise the TMC, Azad clarified that he had no personal dispute with Dubey.
Replying to the BJP MP, Azad wrote, “You have my blessings. There’s no personal fight here. Just take it as a suggestion or request from me—fight your enmity as much as you want, but don’t let it cross the line where differences turn into personal rifts. I was just confirming Operation Lotus.”
He also indicated that he would meet Dubey during the ongoing Parliament session.
Rebellion Continues To Shake TMC
The political sparring comes against the backdrop of a growing revolt inside the Trinamool Congress. A significant number of the party’s Lok Sabha MPs have reportedly distanced themselves from the leadership, intensifying speculation about a major split within the organisation.
The crisis erupted after the party’s defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections and has since expanded beyond the state legislature to Parliament. Senior leaders have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s functioning, leaving the TMC leadership facing mounting pressure as it attempts to contain the unrest.
