New Delhi, June 15 -- The Trinamool Congress' decision to join an obscure political party appeared puzzling at first, but soon, it was seen as a tactical move to buy time before the group seeks the "real TMC" stamp.

Political observers believe it's a careful move to bypass legalities and, at the same time, make political calculations, news agency PTI reported.

The rebel TMC MPs' decision to merge with the lesser-known, Tripura-based NCPI came amid the biggest crisis to have hit the Trinamool Congress since its formation in 1998.

Here's why merging with NCPI provides TMC rebels a safe place to be in

The 20 rebel Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MPs did not take the familiar route travelled by the majority of defectors from various politica...