The TMC is facing unease over the political fallout in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, following violence and allegations of rape and land grabbing involving local TMC leaders. The party is worried about polarisation along community and religious lines, as well as a shrinking political footprint in the area. The arrest of a TMC minister in an alleged ration scam has also weakened the party, leading to concerns about losing the Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency.
TMC chief Mamata Banerjee questioned Congress's ability to win even 40 Lok Sabha seats, accusing the party of trying to appease Muslims for votes in Bengal and criticizing Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' as a "photo op." She expressed doubt about Congress's capability to fight against BJP in Bengal and accused them of not informing TMC about the yatra entering the state. The bitter remarks have strained the relationship between the two parties, with TMC firm on offering only two seats to Congress, while some Congress leaders believe a final decision will emerge by February-end.
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee announced that TMC will contest the state's Lok Sabha polls independently, criticizing Congress for not consulting TMC about Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra route through Bengal. She expressed willingness for "post-poll adjustments" at the national level but emphasized TMC's determination to defeat BJP. TMC accused Congress of double standards and stated that the alliance (INDIA) does not belong to any one party, warning Congress not to interfere in seats allocated to regional parties.
Authorities in Bengal have issued a Look Out Circular against TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan following an attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials investigating a ration scam. The BSF has been alerted to prevent Shahjahan from potentially fleeing to Bangladesh. Three FIRs have been filed in connection with the incident, including one against Shahjahan's caretaker for criminal trespass. An audio clip has emerged with Shahjahan claiming innocence and alleging political conspiracy, while the BJP has staged protests in response to the attack. No arrests have been made yet as the investigation continues.
TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee questioned why PM Modi is not being disqualified for hurting the sentiments of women by his taunts against Mamata Banerjee, similar to Rahul Gandhi's disqualification for his comments about a community. Banerjee also asked the party's legal cell to file a case against Suvendu Adhikari seeking his disqualification from the West Bengal Assembly for "insulting" a woman minister from the tribal community.
