ECI bars BJP's Abhijit Gangopadhyay from campaigning for offensive remarks on Mamata Banerjee

The Election Commission of India (ECI) Tuesday imposed a 24-hour ban on campaigning by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Calcutta High Court judge, Abhijit Gangopadhyay. The decision followed his recent controversial remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee, Bar and Bench reported.

As per a report by the legal portal, the ban commences at 5 PM on May 21. Condemning strongly Gangopadhyay's remarks, The ECI noted Gangopadhyay, "made a low-level personal attack and thus violated the provisions of Model Code of Conduct, adding that his comments tarnished the state's reputation, which is known for its respect for women.

During a public meeting in Haldia on May 15, Gangopadhyay allegedly made offensive comments about Mamata Banerjee, questioning her integrity and making derogatory remarks about her appearance and gender. These remarks prompted the All-India Trinamool Congress to file a complaint with the ECI.

Notably, the former judge is not new to controversy. Earlier, he had accused fellow judge Justice Soumen Sen of political bias, leading the Supreme Court to intervene and transfer related proceedings. Gangopadhyay resigned in March, months before his scheduled retirement.

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