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Politics
EC reviews rival claims over TMC symbol ahead of West Bengal bypolls
✍️ telegraphindia.com
🗓 13 Sep 2026, 04:02 AM
👁 24
The Election Commission is examining competing claims from Trinamool Congress factions over the party’s election symbol, a dispute that could leave one or both groups without the iconic tiger emblem in upcoming West Bengal by‑polls.
The Election Commission of India (EC) has opened a formal inquiry into conflicting applications submitted by rival factions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the use of the party’s official election symbol, the tiger. Both groups claim legitimate ownership of the emblem, which is central to TMC’s brand identity and voter recognition.
The dispute arises as West Bengal prepares for a series of by‑polls that could alter the political balance in the state. If the EC is unable to resolve the matter before the polling dates, the affected faction(s) may be forced to contest without the tiger symbol, potentially confusing supporters and affecting vote shares.
EC officials have said they will consider documentation, internal party resolutions and any legal precedents before reaching a decision. The commission has not set a definitive deadline, but the timeline is tight given the proximity of the by‑polls.
Political analysts warn that the symbol controversy could become a strategic lever for rival parties, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which may seek to capitalize on any fragmentation within the TMC. The outcome of the EC’s deliberations will be closely watched by party leaders and voters alike.
The TMC leadership has urged the commission to expedite the process, emphasizing the need for a clear symbol to avoid voter confusion and maintain the party’s electoral momentum in the state.
The dispute arises as West Bengal prepares for a series of by‑polls that could alter the political balance in the state. If the EC is unable to resolve the matter before the polling dates, the affected faction(s) may be forced to contest without the tiger symbol, potentially confusing supporters and affecting vote shares.
EC officials have said they will consider documentation, internal party resolutions and any legal precedents before reaching a decision. The commission has not set a definitive deadline, but the timeline is tight given the proximity of the by‑polls.
Political analysts warn that the symbol controversy could become a strategic lever for rival parties, especially the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which may seek to capitalize on any fragmentation within the TMC. The outcome of the EC’s deliberations will be closely watched by party leaders and voters alike.
The TMC leadership has urged the commission to expedite the process, emphasizing the need for a clear symbol to avoid voter confusion and maintain the party’s electoral momentum in the state.