Malda: In a significant political development ahead of the assembly elections, the Indian National Congress faced a major setback in Old Malda as more than 500 workers defected to the All India Trinamool Congress.
The mass joining took place at a public meeting held at the Dhankuri ground in the Mahisbathani area, where Trinamool candidate Lipika Barman Ghosh welcomed the defectors. Among those who switched sides were senior Congress leader Shibnath alias Shibu Shukul and Panchayat Samiti member Sakila Bibi, along with several panchayat representatives.
Explaining his decision, former Congress leader Shukul said: “The Congress has deviated from its ideals and principles. It is no longer the party it used to be, so joining Trinamool was the right step.”
Trinamool candidate Ghosh expressed confidence, stating: “Our party was already strong in Malda. With these leaders joining, we have become even stronger. I am hopeful of winning this seat from the BJP and dedicating it to Mamata Banerjee.”
However, Congress leader Gopal Sarkar dismissed the impact, saying: “Those who left have no influence. They have already exhausted Congress and will do the same in Trinamool.”