The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has taken a massive gamble ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections by dropping 74 sitting MLAs from its candidate list. While the move is aimed at neutralizing anti-incumbency, it has triggered a wave of rebellion across West Bengal. From North 24 Parganas to Murshidabad, disgruntled leaders and their supporters have taken to the streets, burning tires and shouting slogans against the party leadership.

Five prominent rebels, in particular, have emerged as a significant threat to Mamata Banerjee’s electoral calculations. Leading the charge is expelled leader Humayun Kabir, who has floated his own “Aam Janata Unnayan Party” and announced candidates for 182 seats in alliance with AIMIM. In Bhangar, former MLA Arabul Islam has expressed deep resentment over being sidelined, with reports suggesting he may jump ship to the ISF. Similarly, heavyweights like Rafiqur Rahaman of Amdanga are facing pressure from supporters to contest as independents. Political analysts warn that these “homegrown rivals” could split the minority and rural votes, potentially turning the tide in favor of the BJP in closely contested seats. As the rebels consolidate their stance, the TMC finds itself battling not just the opposition, but its own disgruntled ranks.