The Election Commission, in an interim order on Thursday, barred both Trinamool factions from using the party name and the familiar ‘Flowers and Grass’ symbol in the upcoming bypolls, ensuring an even playing field.
Ritabrata Banerjee’s faction has earmarked "Nationalist Trinamool Congress", "Democratic Trinamool", and "West Bengal Trinamool" as its potential identities, with a torch as a prospective symbol.
Mamata Banerjee’s wing has lined up "Mamata" and "Trinamool Congress" as its titles, pairing them with two sports-themed symbols that echo the party’s "Khela Hobe" slogan.
In Rejinagar, where the seat became vacant after AJUP founder Humayun Kabir resigned, both factions filed nominations: Safiuzzaman Saikh with a Form‑B from Ritabrata’s wing and Rabiul Alam Chowdhury with one from Mamata’s side.
The rift dates back to 22 June, when Ritabrata convened a meeting to form a new National Working Committee, naming Arup Roy chair; Mamata’s faction argues the move violated the party’s constitution and that the EC will decide the legitimate claim.
The Election Commission will review the submissions and allot a name and symbol before the vote, which is set for 6 October and will be counted on 9 October.