Election Commission to rule on competing TMC factions' symbol claim by Sept 17
Two rival groups of the Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee, have each filed separate candidates for upcoming by-elections, both asserting rights to the party’s reserved symbol. The Election Commission has asked for written responses by Sept 16 and may issue an interim decision on Sept 17.
In the constituencies of Nandigram and Rejinagar, the split within the Trinamool Congress has resulted in each faction nominating its own candidate while claiming legitimacy over the party’s official symbol. The Election Commission, which heard arguments from both sides on Saturday, set a deadline of Sept 16 for written replies. Sources indicate the commission could review those submissions and deliver a provisional ruling the following day, Sept 17, before the nomination deadline closes.
Why it matters
The decision will determine which TMC faction can contest the by-elections under the party’s official symbol, influencing voter perception and election outcomes.
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