Nandigram TMC Symbol Dispute: Fate of Two Candidates Hangs in Balance After Scrutiny

The political and legal uncertainty surrounding the Trinamool Congress symbol has complicated the nomination process for the Nandigram Assembly by-election. Scrutiny of nominations was kept pending after two candidates associated with rival TMC factions submitted papers using the twin-flower symbol.

Mamata Banerjee's Kalighat camp has nominated Sanchita Pradhan De, while the faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee has nominated Mohammad Ehtesamul Haque. The Election Commission has yet to settle which faction can use the party name and symbol for the by-election.

Scrutiny Put on Hold

The returning officer deferred the scrutiny process until Friday morning while the symbol issue remains unresolved. The Congress has also sought rejection of the two TMC nominations, arguing that the candidates may face procedural difficulties if neither faction is authorised to use the party symbol.

The Nandigram by-election is scheduled for October 6. The Election Commission's decision on the party name and symbol will determine how the rival candidates proceed.