Political tensions rise in Bengal as Congress cancels Rahul Gandhi’s rally, alleging denial of permission by the Trinamool govt
The Indian National Congress has cancelled Rahul Gandhi’s proposed rally in Kolkata ahead of the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, alleging that the ruling Trinamool Congress denied permission.
Gandhi was scheduled to campaign in the city on April 23, but the party said it did not receive clearance from local authorities despite waiting until Tuesday evening, making it difficult to complete preparations in time.
Congress alleges political interference
Party leaders claimed the state administration and police acted at the behest of the Mamata Banerjee-led government. State Congress chief Subhankar Sarkar alleged both the Trinamool and the Bharatiya Janata Party were uneasy after Gandhi’s recent rallies in Malda and Murshidabad.
The Congress said it will seek fresh permission for a revised rally, likely on April 25 or 26.
Trinamool cites procedure, shifts focus to EC
Responding to the allegations, state minister Shashi Panja said permissions for public meetings must be applied for in advance through the government’s Suvidha portal, a rule applicable to all parties.
She added that the “caretaker government” could not be held responsible and suggested that the Election Commission of India should address the issue.
High-stakes battle in Bengal
The cancellation comes amid an intense electoral contest in West Bengal, where the Congress is contesting in alliance with the Left Front, aiming to turn the primarily bipolar contest between the Trinamool and the BJP into a triangular fight.
Polling for the 294-member Assembly is being held in phases, with counting scheduled for May 4.
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