Congress MP from Malda in West Bengal joins TMC

In a major blow to the Congress ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, it's sitting MP from Malda (North) constituency in West Bengal, Mausam Benazir Noor, joined Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday.

Noor, who met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the State Secretariat, said that she has joined TMC to work under the leadership of Banerjee and usher in development in Malda district.

"People are with the Trinamool Congress. The people of Malda and Bengal love our Chief Minister and that's the reason I want to work under her leadership," said Noor. She was speaking to journalists at the State Secretariat after meeting the Chief Minister. Banerjee was also standing next to her.

TMC observer for Malda district and Transport Minister Suvendu Adhikari said Noor will campaign for TMC in North and South Dinajpur along with Malda district.

The development drew a strong reaction from AICC observer for West Bengal Gaurav Gogoi. "It is very unfortunate. TMC is trying to weaken Congress and by doing so they are strengthening BJP. TMC is now working as BJP's agent," said Gogoi.