Rahul Gandhi Rally In Kolkata Cancelled
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s planned campaign in West Bengal has hit a hurdle after his proposed April 23 election rallies in Kolkata and Serampore were called off over lack of permission. The development has added a fresh political flashpoint to the Bengal Assembly election campaign, with the Congress alleging selective denial of rally access.
Rahul Gandhi Kolkata Rally Cancelled Over Permission Issue
Congress sources said Rahul Gandhi was scheduled to address two rallies in West Bengal on April 23, one in Kolkata and another in Serampore. However, the party said permission was not granted for the meetings, forcing cancellation of the campaign plan. The issue has become politically sensitive because the Congress is contesting the Bengal polls on its own after a gap of two decades.
Congress Alleges Denial Of Rally Venue Access
State Congress leaders said the party had explored venues including Park Circus Maidan and Metiabruz for Rahul Gandhi’s Kolkata rally. According to party leaders, one venue was unavailable because of a civic decision to keep the ground free from political meetings, while another could not be used because it was blocked on the Election Commission’s Suvidha portal for that day. Congress leaders have argued that the denial has affected their ability to hold large campaign events.
Election Permission Row Adds Heat To Bengal Polls
The Trinamool Congress has said permission for public meetings is handled through the Election Commission process and not by the caretaker government. The row has now widened into a larger debate over campaign access and fairness during the election period. Congress leaders said efforts are still underway to bring Rahul Gandhi to Bengal for campaigning after Thursday’s polling phase, suggesting the issue may not be over yet.
