Trinamool Congress MP and actor Dev Adhikari has broken ranks with the party’s official “non-resignation” stance, becoming one of the first major TMC leaders to publicly congratulate the BJP on its 2026 Assembly victory.
In a statement released on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Dev described the landslide win as a reflection of the “people’s mandate” and expressed his hope that the new administration would prioritize peace and the state’s progress.
As a leading figure in the Bengali film industry (Tollywood), Dev specifically appealed to the incoming BJP government to end the “culture of bans and divisions” that he claims has plagued the industry in recent years.
He urged the new leadership to uphold “artistic freedom” and ensure that the film fraternity remains a space of unity rather than a battleground for political rivalries.
“I sincerely hope the government works towards the progress, peace, and development of our state and makes sure the people’s voice is heard,” Dev wrote, signaling his readiness to work constructively with the new administration despite his party’s official protests.
While Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has labeled the election “rigged” and asked her MLAs to wear black in protest, Dev’s balanced response highlights a growing divide within the TMC. Several other party members have reportedly acknowledged the verdict, though the party leadership has clarified that such remarks represent personal views.
As the state prepares for the swearing-in of the first-ever BJP government on May 9, Dev’s call for a new era of “communal harmony and political liberty” has resonated with many who hope for a smooth transition of power.
