The Supreme Court has declined to intervene directly in a plea filed by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) seeking fast-track disqualification of rebel legislators in West Bengal. Rejecting the party's petition, the top court stated that it would not issue directions to the State Assembly Speaker at this juncture, directing the ruling party to first approach the Calcutta High Court for appropriate relief.
Supreme Court Directs TMC to Approach High Court
A Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard the matter on Thursday. Dismissing the petition, the bench emphasized that at this stage, it is proper and appropriate for the petitioner to pursue the matter before the Calcutta High Court rather than directly seeking intervention from the apex court. The ruling gives TMC the liberty to file a fresh petition before the High Court.
High Court Division Bench Requested for Expedited Hearing
While dismissing the appeal, the Supreme Court made a specific request to the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court. The apex bench asked the Chief Justice to place the matter before a Division Bench for an early hearing and swift disposal. This recommendation aims to resolve the pending legal uncertainty surrounding the status of the rebel MLAs without unnecessary delay.
10 Rebel MLAs Facing Disqualification Proceedings
The legal action was initiated by TMC MLA Shobhandeb Chattopadhyay, who sought a judicial mandate directing the Assembly Speaker to quickly decide on the pending disqualification petitions. The proceedings target 10 rebel legislators who parted ways with party discipline. Prominent among those named is Ritabrata Banerjee, who holds the position of Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly.
Background of the Anti-Defection Petitions
The disqualification proceedings against the 10 legislators were formally initiated under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which deals with anti-defection regulations. These petitions were filed in July 2026 following allegations of anti-party conduct. TMC has been pressing for an immediate ruling on their status, but the decision will now rest with the proceedings in the Calcutta High Court.
