Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Kolkata, Jun 12: Amid growing signs of unrest within the Trinamool Congress (TMC), party MP Kirti Azad on Friday accused the BJP of attempting to engineer divisions within the ruling West Bengal party, remarking that "Operation Lotus never fails."
His comments came after reports surfaced of a document bearing the signatures of 19 Trinamool MPs, who allegedly claimed to represent the majority faction of the party's contingent in the Lok Sabha, fuelling speculation about internal dissent.
Dismissing concerns that the development could weaken the party, Azad asserted that the Trinamool Congress derives its strength from its chief, Mamata Banerjee.
"The party has been built through Mamata Banerjee's struggles and leadership. No individual leader can claim to win elections solely on personal strength while representing the Trinamool Congress," he said.
Referring to the rebel MPs, Azad alleged that several of them had been under pressure due to investigations and political circumstances. According to him, some lawmakers feared administrative action and political targeting, making them vulnerable to influence.
He further claimed that the BJP had been working to weaken opposition parties across the country and suggested that the latest developments in West Bengal should be viewed in that context.
Questioning the timing of the rebellion, Azad argued that if there were genuine grievances within the party, they should have surfaced earlier rather than after electoral setbacks. He also raised doubts about the authenticity and timing of the signatures on the purported letter, alleging that they appeared to have been collected at different times.
Responding to reports of tensions involving senior Trinamool leader Kalyan Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee, Azad said the party leadership would address any internal issues. He expressed confidence that Kalyan Banerjee would remain with the organisation, describing him as a loyal and committed member.
The Trinamool MP also accused the BJP of systematically attempting to break opposition parties and reduce political competition. Citing developments involving regional parties in different states, he alleged that the ruling party at the Centre seeks to weaken opposition forces ahead of future political battles.
Azad further claimed that the BJP's broader political strategy is linked to securing greater parliamentary strength for future legislative initiatives, including issues related to delimitation.
The remarks come at a time when the Trinamool Congress is facing increasing scrutiny over reports of internal divisions, though the party leadership has yet to make a detailed public statement on the latest claims.