New Delhi: Senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Lok Sabha MP Saugata Roy has claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) approached him with an offer to switch sides, but he firmly rejected the proposal.
Speaking to reporters, Roy said he remains loyal to the party led by Mamata Banerjee and has no intention of leaving. “Yes, I got an offer to join the BJP. But I rejected it. I will stay in the party on whose symbol I won the election,” he said.
Roy’s remarks come at a time when the Trinamool Congress is facing fresh political speculation following the resignation of senior Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray. Ray recently stepped down from both the party and Parliament after making serious allegations of corruption within the TMC.
His resignation created a political buzz, especially after reports emerged that he visited the residence of a BJP leader. The development has fueled speculation that Ray may soon join the saffron party.
However, Saugata Roy dismissed concerns about Ray’s departure and downplayed its significance. Taking a sharp dig at the former Rajya Sabha MP, Roy questioned his political relevance.
“This is not important. The Rajya Sabha MP who has never won an election—what is the value of his opinion?” Roy said.
The veteran TMC leader’s comments reflect the party’s attempt to project confidence despite the controversy surrounding Ray’s exit. While opposition parties may seek to capitalize on the developments, TMC leaders continue to maintain that the party remains united under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership.
The political developments are likely to be closely watched in West Bengal ahead of future electoral battles.
