District Trinamul leaders of South Dinajpur and Malda announced the expulsion or suspension several party leaders and workers on Sunday for contesting as or fielding their kin as Independents for the July 8 rural polls.

Mrinal Sarkar, the district Trinamul chief of South Dinajpur, said on Sunday that 19 party leaders in his district were expelled for acting against the party’s interest.

“Most of these people were contesting the elections and didn’t withdraw despite instructions from the party. That is why they were expelled. Let us make it clear that even if they win, we will not take them back,” said Sarkar.

Among those expelled include six from Gangarampur, five from Kumarganj, three from Bansihari, two from Hili and three others from Tapan and Kushmandi blocks of the district.

“It was necessary to give a message across the party that those not obeying the decision would face consequences. Only 13 days are left to go for the rural polls and these stern steps will discourage the disgruntled lot from going against the official Trinamul candidates,” said a party insider.

Similarly, in Malda, a district with a minority population of around 52 per cent, at least five leaders have been expelled or suspended from Trinamul.

“The Malda district leadership has also recommended the expulsion of two leadersof the party’s minority cell who have been vocal against the party,” said a Trinamul leader.