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Rahul Gandhi Bengal visit canceled; Congress blames Mamata govt; fresh request planned for Apr 25/26; Suvidha Portal rule cited
Rahul Gandhi’s Kolkata visit planned for April 23 was cancelled after Congress alleged police did not grant permission, possibly at the behest of the TMC. Congress says it will file a fresh permission request for April 25 or 26. TMC minister Shashi Panja noted that public meetings require Suvidha Portal approval 2-7 days in advance.
Why It Matters
The episode underscores ongoing tensions between Congress and the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC in West Bengal and highlights the regulatory process governing political public meetings.
Timeline
3 Events
TMC minister cites Suvidha Portal rule for public meetings
April 21, 2026
TMC minister Shashi Panja said applications for public meetings must be sent through the Suvidha Portal 2-7 days before the public meeting, and this rule applies to all public meetings; all political parties need to obtain permission.
Fresh request for administrative permission planned for Apr 25/26
April 21, 2026
Congress sources told ANI that Rahul Gandhi remains keen to visit Bengal and a fresh request for administrative permission will be submitted for either April 25 or 26.
Cancellation of Rahul Gandhi's Kolkata visit scheduled for April 23
April 21, 2026
Congress said the Kolkata visit planned for April 23 was cancelled after the local administration (police) did not grant permission, allegedly at the behest of the Trinamool Congress. The party stated it waited until 6pm on April 21 but permission was not granted, making preparations impossible.