“We decided collectively”: Satabdi Roy says NCPI MPs seek extension
Satabdi Roy says NCPI MPs collectively decided to seek an extension on disqualification pleas following the expiry of their deadline.
In a significant development regarding the ongoing disqualification proceedings, Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) leader Satabdi Roy announced on Thursday that the party's Members of Parliament have made a collective decision to approach the Speaker for a two-week extension on their disqualification pleas.
The request comes at a critical juncture, as the previously granted two-week deadline for the MPs to respond to anti-defection notices expired on Thursday, October 8. The legal battle stems from disqualification petitions filed against these members following their departure from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and subsequent alignment with the NDA, a move they maintain was a valid merger into the NCPI.
Collective Decision on Extension
Speaking to reporters, Satabdi Roy clarified that the move to seek more time was not an individual choice but a unified stance taken by the group. “We submitted a letter to the Speaker again, requesting a two-week extension. We had to submit that letter; we decided on it collectively and handed it over,” Roy stated.
Addressing concerns regarding the attendance at the recent meeting, Roy noted that the absence of ten MPs was anticipated. She explained that some members were traveling while others were occupied with official commitments, such as DISHA meetings. “Regarding the ten MPs who didn't show up—it wasn't expected that they would; some were out of town, others were attending meetings... We already knew who ten wouldn't come,” she added.
Contradictory Stance from Rachana Banerjee
However, the narrative regarding the meeting's purpose was not entirely uniform within the party. NCPI MP Rachana Banerjee offered a different perspective, suggesting that the primary reason for the gathering was the upcoming festive season rather than legal strategy.
“No, there hasn't been any discussion about that (on seeking an extension on disqualification pleas). We simply met today. There is Puja, and it was important for us to come together for it,” Banerjee said, noting that Parliament is often the only place where the group congregates.
Mamata Banerjee’s Delhi Visit and Political Protests
The political discourse also touched upon West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to Delhi and the ongoing protests by the INDIA bloc. Roy expressed confidence in the Chief Minister's leadership, stating that her presence in the national capital would add significant weight to the ongoing political battles.
“Mamata Banerjee has always fought these battles, and she will continue to do so. Her visit to Delhi will add significance to the issue,” Roy remarked, while maintaining a cautious stance on the legal outcome, noting that no conclusions can be drawn until a formal judgment is delivered.
In contrast, Rachana Banerjee dismissed the intensity of the INDIA bloc's protests, characterizing them as part of a recurring political agenda. “They are raising their own slogans and voicing their concerns in their own way... Every month, they dig something up to bring to the fore; they raise slogans and stage sit-ins in line with their agenda,” Banerjee remarked, adding that the party does not pay much attention to such activities.