Election Commission Issues Notice to BJP Candidate for Derogatory Remarks Against Mamata Banerjee

In Short

• Ex-High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay served notice by Election Commission
• Poll panel’s action over ‘undignified’ remarks against Mamata Banerjee
• Trinamool filed complaint against Gangopadhyay’s indecent and misogynistic comments

The Election Commission has taken action against former High Court judge and BJP candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay for his alleged improper and undignified remarks targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

This move comes after the Trinamool Congress (TMC) filed a complaint, accusing Gangopadhyay of displaying indecent behavior and a misogynistic mindset.

The TMC lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission, denouncing Gangopadhyay’s statements as a clear reflection of his indecent behavior and disrespectful attitude towards Mamata Banerjee.

The party quoted remarks made by Gangopadhyay during a public address in Haldia on May 15, where he allegedly questioned Mamata Banerjee’s integrity and gender in a derogatory manner.

According to the TMC’s complaint, Gangopadhyay’s speech included statements such as, “Mamata Banerjee, how much are you being sold for? Your rate is 10 lakhs, why? Because you’re getting your makeup done by Keya Seth? Mamata Banerjee, is she even a woman? I keep wondering sometimes.” The TMC condemned these remarks as vulgar, uncouth, and completely lacking in decorum.

In its complaint, the TMC emphasized that such remarks not only lacked decency and morality but also displayed a blatant disregard for Mamata Banerjee, the only female Chief Minister.

The party asserted that Gangopadhyay’s comments went beyond the bounds of acceptability.

In response to the complaint, the Election Commission issued a notice to Abhijit Gangopadhyay, highlighting that his comments were improper, injudicious, and violated the dignity of the electoral process.

The Commission deemed Gangopadhyay’s remarks to be in bad taste and a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

Abhijit Gangopadhyay has been asked to provide a response to the Election Commission by May 20, detailing his justification for the derogatory remarks made against Mamata Banerjee.

The Commission expects Gangopadhyay to explain his statements and address the concerns raised regarding his conduct during the electoral campaign.

The notice issued by the Election Commission underscores the importance of maintaining decorum and respect in political discourse, emphasizing the need for all candidates to adhere to ethical standards during the electoral process.