Nandigram Bypoll: Mamata Backs Congress Candidate After Faction’s Pick Withdraws Following Meeting With CM Adhikari

On Friday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared her faction's support for the Congress in the forthcoming Nandigram bypoll. This decision followed the withdrawal of her party's candidate, Sanchita Pradhan Dey, from the contest after a meeting with the Chief Minister. Banerjee stated, "We are extending our support to Congress in Nandigram and in Assam. We are doing this for the greater interest of the nation."

In the same media briefing, the West Bengal Chief Minister also criticized the Election Commission for allocating separate names and symbols to two rival Trinamool Congress factions. Banerjee expressed her discontent, saying, "We don't disrespect the Constitutional Chair, but we feel today is a black day in our democratic history.

What is happening in our country is very unfortunate, unconstitutional, illegal, undemocratic, and a totally biased vendetta to satisfy..." She further accused the BJP of attempting to undermine democratic institutions, alleging that opposition leaders and journalists have faced repercussions for criticizing the ruling party.