The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is facing a major political crisis after around 20 rebel MPs reportedly moved to merge with a little-known political party from Tripura, triggering fresh tensions within the Mamata Banerjee-led party. As the situation escalated, TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, urging him not to recognise any separate faction claiming to represent the party in Parliament.

According to reports, the rebel MPs have submitted documents seeking merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), a regional outfit with limited political presence. The move has sparked debate over the anti-defection law and whether the merger can legally protect the MPs from disqualification. Sources said the dissident leaders are attempting to use provisions under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which allows protection from disqualification in cases where at least two-thirds of legislators merge with another political party.

The TMC leadership has strongly opposed the move. In his communication to the Speaker, Abhishek Banerjee reportedly stated that the Trinamool Congress remains a united party and no breakaway faction should be granted separate recognition in the Lok Sabha. The development comes at a sensitive time for the party, which has been dealing with internal dissatisfaction and growing speculation over leadership disagreements. Political observers believe the rebellion could impact the party’s strength in Parliament if the merger is formally accepted.

The choice of the NCPI has also surprised many in political circles, as the Tripura-based party has largely remained outside mainstream national politics. Analysts say the rebels may have strategically chosen a smaller registered party to strengthen their legal position under anti-defection rules. Legal experts believe the matter could eventually reach the courts, depending on the Speaker’s decision. The interpretation of merger provisions under the anti-defection law is expected to play a crucial role in determining the future of the rebel MPs.

The BJP-led NDA is closely watching developments, as any reduction in TMC’s parliamentary numbers could indirectly benefit the ruling alliance in future legislative battles. The Lok Sabha Speaker is expected to examine the documents submitted by the rebel MPs before taking a final call on the merger request. With political uncertainty growing and both sides preparing for a legal fight, the latest rebellion has emerged as one of the biggest challenges for the Trinamool Congress in recent years.