The Congress in Tripura, which saw exodus of rank and file to the Trinamool Congress and the BJP, plunged into crisis with a senior MLA staging a revolt.
Former Leader of the Opposition Ratan Lal Nath has defied a show-cause notice of the Congress high command over his open support to the Narendra Modi government’s demonetisation decision.
Mr. Nath, who has been abstaining from all organisational programmes of the Congress, shocked his colleagues when he supported demonetisation in the Assembly and opposed an all-party resolution to condemn the Centre’s decision.
“He has not resigned from the Congress, but surely not with the party. He is rather worried about his prospects in the 2018 Assembly elections,” a close aide of the veteran politician said on Monday.
The BJP and the Trinamool Congress are surging ahead after accommodating Congress deserters, including six MLAs. In the recent civic elections, the performance of the Congress was dismal, with its candidates securing third or fourth position.
Awaits expulsion
Sources said Mr. Nath is unlikely to put in his papers to evade anti-defection law and is waiting for his expulsion from the Congress to choose his next destination — the Trinamool or the BJP. Both the parties have already approached the four-time MLA from Mohanpur.
He is known for his organisational skills and fiery speeches.
