The Election Commission issued a reprimand to Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court and BJP candidate, for making derogatory remarks about West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. As a consequence, he has been barred from campaigning for a period of 24 hours. This action underscores the Election Commission's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that candidates adhere to the principles of fair and respectful campaigning. 

The Election Commission characterised Gangopadhyay's remark as a "base personal attack," emphasising that it contravened the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The directive from the EC would take effect from 5 pm on May 21st. On May 20th, Gangopadhyay responded to the show-cause notice issued by the EC regarding his "undignified" comment against Banerjee. 

"The commission has thoroughly reviewed the contents and assertions presented in the aforementioned response from Abhijit Gangopadhyay and has re-examined the statement made. It is clear to us that he has engaged in a base personal attack, thus breaching the provisions of the MCC. Therefore, the commission hereby issues a strong censure to Gangopadhyay for the aforementioned misconduct and imposes a 24-hour campaigning ban starting from 5 pm on May 21," stated the order. 

The electoral authority also cautioned Gangopadhyay, who is the BJP's candidate for Tamluk, to exercise caution in his public statements throughout the campaign period. 

The Election Commission took action based on a complaint filed by the Trinamool Congress regarding Gangopadhyay's comments against Banerjee during a public gathering held on May 15 in Haldia. 

Image Source: Times of India