Congress Seeks Clarity After Rahul Gandhi’s Campaign Rally Cancelled in West Bengal

The Congress party has voiced its concerns after Rahul Gandhi’s scheduled campaign visit to West Bengal was unexpectedly called off due to alleged denial of permission by state authorities. Gandhi was set to address supporters at rallies in Kolkata and Serampore as part of the party’s efforts for the upcoming Assembly elections. However, local party officials reported that the necessary permissions were not granted.

Subhankar Sarkar, the president of Bengal Congress, expressed frustration over the decision, highlighting a perceived double standard in the state’s political climate. He pointed out that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had been allowed to hold a rally at the same location just days earlier on April 8, raising questions about the impartiality of the local administration. “We were denied permission for Rahul Gandhi’s rally while the Trinamool Congress continues its campaign unimpeded,” Sarkar remarked.

Unidentified party members further claimed that the local police and administration were operating under the influence of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, thus obstructing the opposition’s ability to campaign effectively. The situation has raised alarms within the Congress, which sees the denial of permissions as an attempt to stifle dissent ahead of the crucial elections.

As the Model Code of Conduct is currently in effect due to the approaching election schedule, the West Bengal Police and administration are required to adhere to guidelines set by the Election Commission. The first phase of polling is slated for April 23, with subsequent phases on April 29, and the vote counting scheduled for May 4. This electoral cycle is particularly significant as it follows the intense dynamics of Indian politics, where coalitions and alliances are often tested.

Interestingly, while both the Congress party and TMC are part of the opposition INDIA bloc at the national level, they are contesting the West Bengal Assembly elections separately. This separation has resulted in heightened competition in a state that has witnessed fierce political rivalry in recent years.

Source: scroll.in