TMC Expels Two MLAs as Forged Signature Controversy Deepens

Kolkata: Internal turmoil within the All India Trinamool Congress has intensified following its recent assembly election setback, with the party expelling two legislators over allegations linked to a "forged signature" controversy.

MLAs Sandeepan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee have been expelled from the party for alleged anti-party activities. According to the expulsion letter signed by TMC Vice-President Chandrima Bhattacharya, the two legislators repeatedly skipped party meetings and publicly challenged the leadership.

The expelled MLAs, however, have rejected the allegations, claiming they were punished for exposing corruption within the party. They argued that there is no room for honesty in the party and that they were targeted for raising concerns about irregularities.

What Is the ‘Forged Signature’ Controversy?

The controversy emerged after senior TMC leader Sovandeb Chattopadhyay was nominated as Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly. A letter submitted to the Speaker on May 19 reportedly claimed the support of 70 MLAs.

The dispute began when Sandeepan Saha and Ritabrata Banerjee complained to the Speaker that several signatures on the document were forged. Following a comparison with signatures submitted during the MLAs' oath-taking process, the Assembly Secretariat reportedly detected discrepancies and a police case was registered at Hare Street Police Station. The investigation has since been transferred to the state CID. Reports suggest that several signatures were entered in block letters, raising further suspicions.

Investigation Expands to Senior Leaders

As part of the investigation, CID officials have already questioned TMC leaders Kunal Ghosh and Nayana Banerjee.

The agency also issued a summons to Abhishek Banerjee, the party's national general secretary, although he reportedly did not appear, citing health reasons.

Growing Challenge for Mamata Banerjee

The controversy has added to the challenges facing TMC chief and Mamata Banerjee. Following their expulsion, dissident leaders have hinted at a broader rebellion within the party.

Suspended TMC leader Riju Dutta has claimed that a significant section of the party's legislators supports the dissident camp. If those claims gain traction, the party could face a deeper internal crisis in the coming weeks, compounding the difficulties arising from its recent electoral defeat.

The developments have intensified political uncertainty within the TMC and could have significant implications for the party's future direction in West Bengal politics.