Mamata Banerjee Accuses EC of Inaction in 'Real TMC' Dispute, Opposes Extension for Rebel Faction

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticised the Election Commission of India (EC) for what she termed as 'stoic silence' in the ongoing dispute over the 'Real Trinamool Congress' (TMC) symbol. The controversy emerged after a faction of TMC rebels, led by former party leader Mukul Roy, staked claim to the party's original symbol and name.

Banerjee, addressing a press conference in Kolkata on Thursday, questioned the EC's delay in adjudicating the matter. She argued that the Commission's inaction was allowing the rebel camp to create confusion among party workers and the electorate. 'The EC is staying silent despite our repeated pleas. This silence is not neutrality; it amounts to aiding the rebels,' Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister also opposed the EC's decision to grant additional time to the rebel group to submit documents supporting their claim. She alleged that the extension was unnecessary and was intended to weaken the official TMC. 'We have given all necessary evidence. Why give them more time? This is a deliberate move to destabilise our party,' she added.

The dispute began earlier this year when Mukul Roy, a former TMC heavyweight who had briefly joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) before returning to the party, led a group of dissidents to claim that they were the 'real' TMC. The faction approached the EC seeking recognition as the legitimate holder of the party's symbol—a flowers and grass bundle—and its name.

The EC, which is responsible for settling such disputes under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, has been hearing both sides. However, Banerjee's camp has accused the Commission of foot-dragging and bias. The official TMC has submitted affidavits and documentation to prove that Banerjee remains the party's legitimate leader.

Political analysts note that the tussle over party symbols is not new in Indian politics. Similar disputes have arisen in parties like the Indian National Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party, and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, often leading to prolonged litigation and intervention by the EC.

Banerjee's strong reaction underscores the high stakes for her party ahead of the 2024 general elections. The TMC, which governs West Bengal, sees the rebel faction as a threat to its electoral prospects. The EC's decision on the symbol could have significant implications for the party's campaign and voter recognition.

The rebel camp, meanwhile, has maintained that its claim is legitimate and that the party's internal democracy has been stifled. They have accused Banerjee of autocratic leadership and mismanagement.

The EC has not yet issued a formal response to Banerjee's latest remarks. The matter is expected to next come up for hearing later this month.