Three former Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MPs have switched allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking another significant political realignment in West Bengal. Their entry is expected to add momentum to the BJP’s campaign ahead of the next Assembly elections in the state.
The three leaders—Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Roy and Prakash Chik Baraik—were formally inducted into the BJP at the party’s state headquarters in Kolkata in the presence of senior party leaders. Their move is being seen as an important addition to the BJP’s leadership in West Bengal as it seeks to strengthen its organisational base.
Welcoming the leaders, BJP functionaries said their political experience and understanding of the state’s issues would help the party expand its reach across West Bengal. The party expressed confidence that the new entrants would contribute to its preparations for the upcoming Assembly polls.
Speaking after joining the BJP, the former MPs said they were committed to working for the state’s development and strengthening the party at the grassroots level. They also thanked the BJP leadership for giving them the opportunity to contribute to its vision for West Bengal.
The Trinamool Congress, however, played down the defections, maintaining that the departures would have little impact on its organisational strength. Party leaders said the TMC continues to enjoy strong public support and remains focused on its governance and election strategy.
Political analysts believe the induction of experienced leaders could help the BJP improve its organisational network and outreach, particularly as the political contest with the ruling TMC is expected to intensify in the coming months. However, they note that the electoral impact of such defections will ultimately depend on voter response.
The latest political development comes at a time when both the BJP and the TMC are stepping up preparations for the next Assembly elections. With campaigning expected to gather pace, parties are focusing on strengthening their leadership and expanding their presence across the state.
The entry of the three former TMC leaders reflects the continuing shifts in West Bengal’s political landscape, where both major parties are working to consolidate support ahead of a closely watched electoral battle.
