EC Seeks TMC Faction Replies on Split; Bypolls Threaten Symbol Freeze

The Election Commission of India has formally sought responses from the two rival factions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding a petition seeking recognition as the original party. The development comes ahead of crucial bypolls, where the party symbol could be frozen if the dispute remains unresolved.

The factions—led by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the camp of dissident leader—have been asked to submit their representations before the Commission by the stipulated deadline. The EC's move follows a plea by the breakaway group claiming that Banerjee's faction has deviated from the party's core principles.

Under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, the Commission can freeze a party's symbol if a dispute arises over its leadership. If no resolution is reached before the bypolls, the symbol could be temporarily suspended, forcing the candidates to contest on independent symbols. This would impact voter recognition and party loyalty in the upcoming elections.

Observers note that the EC's intervention is standard procedure in factional disputes, aimed at ensuring a fair resolution before electoral contests. The Commission has previously dealt with similar splits in other parties, including the Congress and the Samajwadi Party.

The bypolls, scheduled for several assembly seats in West Bengal and other states, are seen as a test of political strength for both factions. Banerjee's group holds the majority of party MLAs and organizational control, while the dissidents have alleged authoritarian decisions and lack of internal democracy.

Political analysts caution that a prolonged dispute could weaken the TMC's electoral prospects, especially in the face of a resurgent BJP in the state. The EC's decision on the symbol will be closely watched as it may set a precedent for handling intra-party conflicts.