Mamata Faces Setback as EC Freezes Trinamool’s Symbol and Party Name Ahead of Bypolls

The Election Commission has frozen the Trinamool Congress’ name and Flowers and Grass symbol ahead of the upcoming West Bengal Assembly bypolls.

The interim order prevents both rival factions from using the established party identity until further orders. The Commission directed each faction to submit three proposed names and three free election symbols by 11 AM on September 18. The decision follows months of internal conflict after a rebellion against Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. The dispute intensified after the Trinamool Congress suffered defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.

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Factional Rift in Trinamool Congress Deepens as EC Orders Separate Names and Symbols

Ritabrata Banerjee emerged as the rebellion’s leading figure after the party expelled him. He reportedly secured the support of approximately 60 of the party’s 80 legislators during June. The legislators challenged Mamata’s leadership of the legislature party and demanded organisational changes. The Assembly Speaker subsequently recognised Ritabrata Banerjee as the Leader of the Opposition. Rebel legislators continued recognising Mamata as their overall leader while opposing Abhishek Banerjee’s influence.

The rebel faction later claimed to have removed Mamata as chairperson and appointed Arup Roy. Mamata’s supporters rejected the decision and continued recognising her as party chief. Both factions submitted documents to the Election Commission claiming authority over the party’s identity. The Commission’s latest order requires both groups to contest the bypolls using separate names and symbols. The elections will take place on October 6 in Nandigram and Rejinagar. Counting will occur on October 9, with officials expected to complete the process before October 11. The interim decision does not finally determine which faction owns the party’s established identity. BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya described the dispute as a struggle over organisational resources and bank accounts.

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