Sushmita Dev Quits Trinamool Congress, Meets Himanta Biswa Sarma for ‘Guidance’ Amid Political Speculation

Sushmita Dev, one of the most prominent faces of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in recent years, has resigned from both the party and the Rajya Sabha, triggering fresh political speculation across the country. Her resignation comes at a time when the Trinamool Congress is battling internal challenges and facing criticism after recent electoral setbacks. Soon after quitting the party, Dev was seen meeting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, further fueling discussions about her future political plans.

The former Congress leader-turned-TMC parliamentarian confirmed her departure from the Mamata Banerjee-led party and stated that her decision was entirely personal. Speaking to reporters after announcing her resignation, Dev said she did not want to be “in two boats at the same time,” indicating that she wanted clarity in her political journey. However, she declined to reveal detailed reasons behind her exit and also avoided making any comments about TMC chief Mamata Banerjee.

A Significant Blow for Trinamool Congress

Sushmita Dev’s resignation is being viewed as another major setback for the Trinamool Congress. The party has recently witnessed growing signs of internal unrest, with several leaders expressing dissatisfaction over organizational and political issues. Political observers believe that Dev’s departure could further weaken the party’s national expansion ambitions, especially in the Northeast where she was considered one of TMC’s strongest faces.

Her exit is particularly significant because she was among the few national leaders who had joined TMC from the Congress and played an important role in strengthening the party’s outreach beyond West Bengal. Since joining the party in 2021, she had actively represented TMC on various national issues and was frequently seen defending the party’s positions in Parliament and television debates.

Meeting With Himanta Biswa Sarma Raises Questions

Adding another layer of intrigue to the political development was Sushmita Dev’s meeting with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shortly after her resignation. Reports suggest that she met Sarma in New Delhi and sought his “guidance,” though neither side immediately clarified the exact nature of their discussion.

The meeting has sparked widespread speculation about whether Dev could be preparing for a new political chapter. Given Sarma’s influential role in northeastern politics and his position within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), political analysts believe the meeting could indicate potential realignments in the region. However, no formal announcement regarding her future political affiliation has been made so far.

From Congress Leader to TMC Parliamentarian

Sushmita Dev’s political career has witnessed several significant transitions. The daughter of veteran Congress leader Santosh Mohan Dev, she emerged as a prominent voice within the Congress party and even headed the All India Mahila Congress. In 2021, she resigned from the Congress and joined the Trinamool Congress, a move that surprised many political observers at the time.

After joining TMC, she quickly became one of the party’s key national representatives. She was elected to the Rajya Sabha and actively participated in debates concerning national politics, women’s rights, and issues affecting the Northeast. Her departure from TMC therefore marks a major shift in the political landscape.

Why Her Exit Matters

Political analysts suggest that Dev’s resignation is not merely about one leader changing parties. Instead, it reflects broader challenges confronting the Trinamool Congress. Following recent electoral disappointments, the party has been dealing with questions regarding leadership, strategy, and internal cohesion. Several departures and disagreements within the organization have intensified these concerns.

For the BJP and regional political forces in the Northeast, Dev remains an influential leader with considerable political experience and grassroots connect. Any future decision by her regarding political affiliation could have implications not only for Assam but also for the wider northeastern region.

Political Reactions

While Trinamool Congress leaders have so far refrained from making extensive public comments on Dev’s resignation, opposition parties have highlighted the development as evidence of growing dissatisfaction within the party. BJP leaders, meanwhile, have welcomed dialogue with leaders across political lines but have not officially confirmed any plans regarding Dev’s future role.

The development has also generated significant discussion on social media, where supporters and critics alike are debating the reasons behind her departure and the possible implications for regional and national politics.

What Lies Ahead?

The biggest question now is what Sushmita Dev plans to do next. Her meeting with Himanta Biswa Sarma has intensified speculation, but she has maintained silence regarding her future political roadmap. Whether she joins another political party, returns to regional politics, or takes some time away from active political engagement remains unclear.

For now, her resignation represents another challenge for the Trinamool Congress and a significant political development in the Northeast. As political parties prepare for upcoming electoral battles, Sushmita Dev’s next move will be closely watched by supporters, opponents, and political analysts alike.

Key Facts Table

Particulars	Details
Leader	Sushmita Dev
Former Party	Trinamool Congress (TMC)
Position Held	Rajya Sabha MP
Resignation Date	June 2026
Key Statement	“I don’t want to be in two boats at the same time”
Met After Resignation	Himanta Biswa Sarma
Location of Meeting	New Delhi
Political Speculation	Possible future political realignment

FAQ

Why did Sushmita Dev quit the Trinamool Congress?

Sushmita Dev stated that she did not want to be “in two boats at the same time” and described her reasons as a “long story,” without providing further details.

Did Sushmita Dev resign from the Rajya Sabha?

Yes, she resigned from the Rajya Sabha along with quitting the Trinamool Congress.

Why did Sushmita Dev meet Himanta Biswa Sarma?

Reports indicate that she met Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for “guidance,” though neither side has disclosed detailed discussions.

Is Sushmita Dev joining the BJP?

There has been no official confirmation regarding her joining the BJP or any other political party. The meeting with Himanta Biswa Sarma has only fueled speculation.