Want to jump from CPM to Trinamool? Pay hefty price

The signs of change in West Bengal’s power equation have  prompted many CPI(M) members to shift affiliation. The Trinamool office in Kolkata is flooded with applications for new membership.

The party, however, has ensured the convenience of these fence-sitters does not come without a cost. A member seeking Trinamool membership is required to pay a one-time donation of Rs50,000 to Rs3 lakh. This price is only for those switching over from CPI(M). The amount of donation depends on the level of membership.

An ordinary CPI(M) member running a small shop  may have to pay around Rs50,000, while a local committee member engaged in real estate may have to pay nearly Rs3 lakh.

However, there is concession for those coming from CPI(M)’s student wing, Students Federation of India. For them the price is mandatory subscription to Trinamool’s organ Jago Bangla.
A former CPI(M) youth leader in central Kolkata, who paid Rs1 lakh for switching over to Trinamool, told DNA that he had to do this to save his small order supply business.

“I have three mouths to feed, so I had to give the amount by untimely withdrawing a fixed deposit. I contacted a local Trinamool leader with whom I share a cordial relationship. He was kind enough to arrange for the switch,” he said.

Another local leader who runs a stationary shop in southern Kolkata is ready with Rs50,000 for the switchover, but is unable to track the right person in Trinamool who would strike a deal on his behalf. “I requested some local Trinamool leaders, but they want a cut,” he said.

The Trinamool leadership, however, has denied charging for switchovers. Subrata Bakshi, who is in-charge of screening the switchover applications, admitted that they are welcoming switchover from both Congress and CPI(M), but in a cautious manner.

“The switchover is absolutely a ‘no’ for those who have a prolonged criminal record. Every application is thoroughly screened and credentials are checked to ensure that CPI(M) doesn’t plant moles in Trinamool,” he said.

The CPI(M) leadership, which is well aware of such fence-sitters, seems to be enjoying the development. A central committee member of CPI(M) told DNA that such switchovers are making the task of internal rectification easier for the party leadership.