West Bengal former Chief Minister and Kalighat Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee has written another strongly worded letter to the Election Commission, urging it to expedite the hearing on the dispute over the Trinamool Congress name and election symbol. She has also opposed any further extension of time to the rival Ritabrata Banerjee-led faction, alleging repeated delays in responding to the Commission.
Opposes further extension to rival faction
According to Mamata, the rival camp has already missed two deadlines, July 6 and July 25, despite seeking extensions on both occasions. She argued that no further time should be granted and that the matter should now be decided without additional delay.
Ritabrata camp allegedly missed two deadlines
The dispute began after the Ritabrata faction approached the Election Commission claiming to be the “real Trinamool Congress” and sought control over the party’s name and symbol. Following the petition, the Commission directed both factions to submit their replies and supporting documents by July 6.
Commission urged to conclude proceedings quickly
While the Kalighat faction submitted its response within the stipulated time, the rival camp sought nearly 20 days of additional time in two phases. Mamata claimed that even after the July 25 deadline, it remains unclear whether the rival faction has filed its reply. She also alleged that her camp has not been provided with a copy of any such submission.
Questions repeated deadline extensions by Commission
In her letter, Mamata argued that repeated extensions amount to preferential treatment and contended that if no response has been filed within the extended deadlines, the allegations made by the rival faction should not be treated as sustainable. She urged the Election Commission to dispose of the matter at the earliest.
Letter seeks equal treatment for factions
She further expressed concern that prolonged delays could allow the rival camp time to prepare or fabricate supporting documents. Stressing that both sides should receive equal treatment, Mamata called on the Election Commission to conclude the proceedings without granting any further extension to the Ritabrata Banerjee faction.
