Constitutional Expert Says Election Commission, Not Lok Sabha Speaker, Decides ‘Real TMC’ Status

Background On 12 June 2026 , a faction of Trinamool Congress MPs claimed the support of 19 members of the Lok Sabha . They announced plans to meet Speaker Om Birla on 15 June 2026 to seek recognition as the “real TMC” parliamentary group. Key Developments Former Lok Sabha Secretary‑General and constitutional expert P.D.T. Achary told PTI that the authority to decide the “real TMC” lies with the Election Commission of India , not the Speaker. Achary referenced the Subhash Desai case , noting that the Supreme Court had limited the Speaker’s power to situations where the anti‑defection law is invoked. The rebel faction must file a petition with the ECI, proving they have the majority of MPs and MLAs and control over the party’s organisational wing. The ECI will hear both factions and issue a decision that must withstand judicial scrutiny. Important Facts The TMC currently holds 28 seats in the Lok Sabha and 13 seats in the Rajya Sabha , with three members having resigned. Senior aide Sudip Bandyopadhyay joined the dissident camp on 13 June 2026 and is expected to lead the rebel group in the Lok Sabha. The rebels have not yet been granted separate status under the anti‑defection law and the 10th Schedule . Consequently, they cannot be allocated distinct seating or privileges. UPSC Relevance Understanding the division of powers between the Speaker and the Election Commission is essential for GS2: Polity. The case also illustrates the application of the anti‑defection law and the role of the judiciary in party disputes, a frequent UPSC topic. Way Forward The rebel faction is expected to submit a formal plea to the ECI before 15 June 2026 . The Commission will examine party membership numbers, control over organisational structures, and compliance with the 10th Schedule . A decision will likely be challenged in courts, making the issue a live example of constitutional checks and balances.