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**News Article:**

**Ghosh Skips Modi Rally, Fuels Defection Rumors in West Bengal BJP**

**KOLKATA, July 19, 2025** – Former West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh conspicuously absented himself from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s event in the state on Friday, citing a lack of invitation from the party. Speaking to reporters at Kolkata airport before departing for Delhi, Ghosh stated, “The party cadre had called me to attend the rally. But the party did not invite me. Maybe they do not want me there; it would make them uncomfortable.”

His absence has ignited speculation about a potential defection to the Trinamool Congress, particularly given the upcoming Martyrs’ Day rally led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on July 21st. Ghosh’s move comes after previous absences from other key BJP events attended by senior leaders, including PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

While in Delhi, Ghosh was briefly seen visiting BJP National President JP Nadda. Newly appointed West Bengal BJP President Samik Bhattacharya reached out to Ghosh on July 8th, describing him as the “heart and soul” of the party. Ghosh has publicly stated he will follow party instructions. However, tensions within the party have been evident since Ghosh’s attendance at the Digha Jagannath Temple inauguration with Chief Minister Banerjee in May, a move that drew criticism from within the state BJP. Ghosh previously served as a national vice president and State president of the BJP and has been an MP and MLA.

The situation raises questions about the unity and direction of the BJP in West Bengal, especially with key events and elections on the horizon.

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