Election Drama: TMC Accuses EC of Bias in West Bengal Bypolls

The Election Commission responded to TMC's complaints about alleged bias and misuse of central forces in West Bengal bypolls. The TMC accused the EC of delay and bias, claiming it acted as a BJP wing. The EC denied these allegations, stating it responded promptly within 20 hours.

The ongoing bypolls in West Bengal have become a hotbed of controversy, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) clashing with the Election Commission (EC). The TMC alleged that the EC acted as a biased entity, favoring the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after it failed to address the party's complaints adequately and promptly.

The Election Commission asserted that it acted 'within 20 hours' of the TMC's November 9 submission, countering claims of inaction regarding the conduct of central forces and BJP's alleged influence in six assembly seats. The commission also issued a show cause notice to BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar for derogatory remarks.

However, TMC members, including MP Saket Gokhale, expressed skepticism, accusing the EC of staging a last-minute response. Gokhale criticized the timing of the EC's action, which coincided with the end of bypoll campaigning, further fueling allegations of bias towards BJP.

(With inputs from agencies.)