The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha was scheduled to address two campaign meetings as part of the Congress party’s push in West Bengal, where it is contesting elections independently after two decades. However, state leaders claimed that permission for large public gatherings was not granted. West Bengal Congress president Subhankar Sarkar alleged discrimination, stating that while Mamata Banerjee had addressed a meeting at a similar venue, approval for Gandhi’s rally was denied. The party had initially considered Park Circus Maidan and later Metiabruz for the events. Sources indicated that the Kolkata Municipal Corporation had resolved to keep certain grounds free of political rallies. Additionally, Metiabruz was reportedly unavailable due to prior campaign scheduling and restrictions visible on the Election Commission’s Suvidha portal. Responding to the allegations, Trinamool Congress leader Shashi Panja said permissions for rallies are governed by the Election Commission of India. She emphasized that all parties must apply through the Suvidha portal within the stipulated timeframe and that only the poll panel can clarify reasons for denial. Congress sources said efforts are underway to reschedule Gandhi’s visit after polling concludes in several constituencies.
