Surprise Role in TMC Dilemma: Ramesh’s Influence
A surprising figure has emerged in the ongoing situation surrounding the Trinamool Congress (TMC): CM Ramesh, a 61-year-old MP from Andhra Pradesh. What is a politician from the Telugu-speaking region, with roots in TDP and now part of the BJP, doing in the midst of this political drama involving TMC MPs? Officially, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav lead the efforts, but many believe that businessman-politician Ramesh has been making most of the key decisions.
Ramesh openly admits his skill in persuasion, claiming, “All I need is a couple of hours, and I can convince anyone to join the BJP.” He notes that he has built a rapport with many TMC MPs over the years, especially during casual meetings in the parliamentary canteen. This connection was evident when many lawmakers, including TMC’s Shatabdi Roy, attended his son’s wedding in Dubai in 2020, showcasing strong cross-party bonds.
Critics within TMC are concerned about the recent defections. Twenty-two MPs, including 19 from the Lok Sabha and 3 from the Rajya Sabha, have reportedly been offered two major incentives to switch allegiance: guarantees of support for their constituencies from the central government and promises of protection from investigations by agencies like the ED. Ramesh, however, dismissed claims of financial incentives, saying, “It’s not about money or positions.”
Some TMC supporters, like MP Mahua Moitra, downplay Ramesh’s role in the defection, saying he’s simply trying to maintain political relevance. “He likes to be involved,” she stated, describing his efforts as trying to add his own touch to a situation that doesn’t primarily involve him.
Interestingly, this isn’t Ramesh’s first experience with such political exits. In 2019, he helped orchestrate defections from the TDP when several MPs left to join the BJP after the party’s loss to Jagan Reddy. At that time, four out of six TDP MPs made the switch, and Ramesh was under the scrutiny of law enforcement before aligning with the BJP.
Moreover, he has recently been connected with the election for the Constitution Club, which saw competition between Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Sanjeev Balyan—a contest believed to have Amit Shah’s backing. Ramesh’s collaboration with BJP leaders, including MP Nishikant Dubey during this time, further showcases his active role in party politics.
Ultimately, while Ramesh is certainly playing a part in these developments, Chief Minister Adhikari has been pivotal in convincing reluctant MPs like Sayoni Ghosh to switch sides. Many of these MPs sought personal interaction with him before making a decision, indicating the level of trust and personal connection required in this complex political landscape.
