The Election Commission issued a provisional order on Thursday, citing Paragraph 15 of the 1968 Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order, that would keep the Trinamool Congress’ 'flower' symbol frozen until a substantive determination is made.
Both factions – Mamata Banerjee’s and the breakaway group led by Ritabrata Banerjee – were asked to submit three preferred names and free symbols each by 11 am on 18 September.
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, took to X to label the move a ‘collusion’ between the ECI and the BJP, echoing earlier accusations he made against the handling of Shiv Sena and NCP symbols.
Mamata Banerjee, who remains the face of the main Trinamool faction, said the freeze would hurt her party’s campaign in the Nandigram and Rejinagar by‑polls, which will be held on 6 October.
The ECI’s statement said the interim order would stand until a final ruling, and the body is expected to deliver a decision within 30 days, according to spokesperson Abhijit Singh.
The move comes as the West Bengal government has already announced a caretaker committee for the upcoming elections, and opposition parties are demanding that the symbol be restored to ensure free and fair contests.