Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Trinamool Congress MP Yusuf Pathan has opted out of the all-party delegation announced by the Centre, triggering political friction over what TMC termed a “unilateral” move. Party sources told PTI that Pathan’s withdrawal stemmed from the central government naming him without prior consultation with party leadership.
TMC leadership questions Centre’s authority
TMC leaders, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, emphasized that the Centre has no authority to decide representatives for other parties. “The Centre cannot unilaterally decide who will represent which party. This has to be decided by the respective party leadership,” Abhishek said, adding that TMC would be willing to send multiple names if properly consulted.
No boycott, says Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee clarified that TMC was not boycotting the delegation. “It is wrong to say we are not going. They just need to inform us. We will definitely send a representative,” she said. She underlined that internal parliamentary decisions are made through discussion and not through imposition. “We are fully with the government,” she added, distancing the party from allegations of non-cooperation.
BJP and Congress react
BJP leader Amit Malviya criticised Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of forcing Pathan to step down for political reasons. “This is unfortunate and sends a subliminal message that TMC is unwilling to stand against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism,” Malviya posted on X. Meanwhile, the Congress also questioned the Centre’s selection process, alleging dishonesty after all four of its suggested names were rejected in favour of others, including Shashi Tharoor.
