‘No More TMCification’: Bengal BJP Shuts Doors on New Defectors

Kolkata: When the BJP won the West Bengal Assembly elections on May 4, the landscape of the state changed. People took to the streets with saffron flags and gulal (coloured powder). The sentiments of TMC supporters changed. Within hours, scores of TMC supporters across the state donned saffron robes. After the new government was sworn in, BJP flags and pictures of Suvendu Adhikari were displayed at union offices built during TMC rule. A race to join the BJP also began.

What is the situation?

The situation became so severe that the Bengal BJP had to clarify in its first formal meeting that it would not admit any new members for the time being. 

West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said that "BJP is not a dharamshala, no entry for overnight turncoats."

He said that action would be taken against officials who admit members from other parties.

What did Samik Bhattacharya say?

On TMC leaders seeking to join the BJP, West Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya said that, “TMC is not a political party and whoever was associated with TMC was there for the power… Now, the BJP is in power… So, now it is the responsibility to uphold the support shown by the people of West Bengal. I am not saying that all of them are tainted and corrupt; some are good and want to join the BJP too… The party will decide rest, and there are many in the pipeline too.” 

Samik Bhattacharya warned officials and workers against the Trinamoolization of the BJP. According to the new guidelines, BJP workers are also strictly prohibited from occupying opposition party offices and trade unions. 

Samik Bhattacharya stated that immediate action will be taken against anti-party activities, extortion, and syndicate operations. A disciplinary committee has been formed to monitor the conduct of party officials. He also made changes to the protocol for party banners. Now, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's photo will have to be placed before the state president's on posters and banners.