India, June 9 -- Addressing a press conference in the national capital, rebel leaders asserted that they have the backing of 20 out of the 28 Trinamool Congress MPs in the Lok Sabha. The group maintained that its move was aimed at protecting the interests of party workers and ensuring a stronger political future following the party's recent electoral setbacks.

The dissident MPs said they had formally communicated their position to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and would pursue constitutional and parliamentary procedures for recognition as a separate group.

During the media interaction, the rebel camp dismissed allegations of defection and maintained that their actions were in accordance with democratic principles. The leaders also claimed ...