Kolkata, June 5 -- Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Madan Mitra on Friday dismissed claims by rebel party leaders that they enjoy the support of over 20 MPs, asserting that the party's mandate belongs to Mamata Banerjee and daring the defectors to test their popularity by facing the electorate once more.

Addressing the media upon arriving at party chairperson Mamata Banerjee's residence in Kolkata, Mitra questioned the legitimacy of the rebellion and the political standing of those leaving the party:

"They can say that even the entire party is with them. 2.30 crore people voted in the name of Mamata Banerjee. Is there anyone among those who are going away, who can resign, go to his constituency and say that they want to contest the elect...