Rahul Gandhi's Kolkata Visit Faces Hurdle amid Political Turbulence

The scheduled visit of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to Kolkata has been jeopardized following allegations of permission denial by local authorities. West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja reiterated the need for all political parties to comply with established protocols by submitting requests through the Suvidha Portal well in advance.

Panja clarified that public meeting permits must be processed via the Suvidha Portal within two to seven days prior to the event. This requirement applies uniformly to all parties, with the Election Commission, not the state's Trinamool Congress government, responsible for addressing the situation related to Gandhi's visit.

Amid the Congress' accusations of being thwarted by Mamata Banerjee's government, they awaited administrative clearance in vain. Given the complexities and mounting tensions as the region gears up for a fierce electoral contest, Congress aims to reschedule the visit, eyeing a potential comeback against dominant political forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)