On June 8, 2024, Congress chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar during a joint press conference at the Constitution Club in New Delhi.
Banerjee accused the CEC of stealing votes, hijacking EVMs, and rigging counting, and warned that failure to resign would trigger mass protests.
During the meeting, Banerjee urged Gandhi to sit beside Prime Minister Kharge, and Gandhi complied, thumping the desk and applauding Banerjee's remarks.
The leaders' cordiality sparked speculation that the Trinamool Congress might merge with the Congress, but both parties dismissed the claim.
Congress communication secretary Jairam Ramesh called the media reports "completely inaccurate" and emphasized the personal bond between the leaders.
The meeting ended with both parties denying merger speculation and signalling that the CEC removal demand will be pursued through formal channels.