Sushmita Dev quits TMC, says ‘it’s a long story’

Kolkata, June 10

In a development that has surprised political observers in West Bengal, former Congress leader-turned-Trinamool Congress MP Sushmita Dev has stepped away from the All India Trinamool Congress. Speaking briefly to reporters, she described her decision as “a long story,” refusing to go into details.

The resignation comes at a time when political activity in the state is gradually building momentum ahead of key organisational reshuffles and upcoming electoral calculations.

Background: A Political Journey of Shifts

Sushmita Dev, a prominent face from Assam politics, rose to national recognition during her tenure with the Indian National Congress. Known for her articulate presence in Parliament and legal background, she later joined the Trinamool Congress during its expansion phase beyond West Bengal.

Her entry into TMC was seen as part of the party’s broader strategy to strengthen its national footprint. She was subsequently nominated to the Rajya Sabha, where she contributed to debates on social welfare, women’s rights, and governance.

However, her journey within TMC has reportedly been marked by limited organisational engagement and reduced visibility in recent months, according to political insiders.

The Resignation Moment

Sources indicate that Dev’s resignation was submitted recently, though the party has not issued a detailed public statement. When approached by journalists, she declined to elaborate and only said:

“It’s a long story.”

That single line has since gone viral across political discussion platforms, sparking speculation about whether her exit was voluntary, strategic, or the result of internal disagreements.

Within hours of the news breaking, political commentators in Kolkata and Delhi began debating possible reasons, ranging from organisational dissatisfaction to future political repositioning.

Possible Reasons Behind the Exit

While no official explanation has been provided, political analysts point to several possible factors:

1. Internal Party Dynamics
Some observers suggest that limited roles within the party structure may have contributed to growing frustration.

2. Strategic Political Realignment
There is also speculation that Dev could be exploring new political opportunities outside the Trinamool Congress framework.

3. Communication Gap
Sources familiar with internal party functioning say that coordination issues between national-level entrants and state leadership sometimes lead to disconnects.

However, none of these reasons have been confirmed by Dev herself or by party officials.

Political Impact in West Bengal

The resignation is unlikely to alter the numerical strength of the Trinamool Congress in Parliament, but it carries symbolic weight.

In West Bengal politics, leadership stability and party loyalty are often seen as indicators of organisational strength. A high-profile exit, even without controversy, tends to trigger discussion about internal cohesion.

For the ruling party, which continues to balance governance in the state with national political positioning, such developments are closely watched.

Reactions from Political Circles

Reactions have begun pouring in from across party lines.

TMC leaders have so far maintained silence or offered brief responses, suggesting the matter is personal. One senior party functionary said on condition of anonymity that the leadership was “not fully aware of her concerns.”

Opposition parties, meanwhile, have used the development to question the internal stability of the ruling organisation in West Bengal.

Political analysts note that Dev’s calm and non-confrontational exit statement may indicate an effort to avoid public controversy, even as speculation continues.

What Happens Next

At this stage, it remains unclear whether Sushmita Dev will take a break from active politics or align herself with another political platform.

Her past career trajectory shows flexibility in political positioning, and observers believe she may re-emerge in a different capacity in the future.

For now, her brief statement has left more questions than answers, ensuring that the story remains in the political spotlight.