Party sources claim TMC to challenge ECI’s decision to withdraw “National Party” status

The Trinamool Congress of Mamata Banerjee has had its national party status revoked by the Election Commission (EC).

The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) is exploring legal options to challenge the decision of ECI of withdrawing the national party status of TMC as claimed by Party Sources.

Earlier, the CPI, NCP, and Trinamool Congress of Mamata Banerjee have had their national party status revoked by the Election Commission (EC). Following its performance in Gujarat, when it secured five seats, Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party was given the tag.

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Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh, Revolutionary Socialist Party in West Bengal, and Voice of the People Party in Meghalaya have also had their state party status revoked by the commission. Based on a set of criteria, the EC recognizes political parties as national parties.

For a general election for the Lok Sabha or the State Legislative Assembly, the party must receive at least 6% of the valid votes cast in any four or more states. Any state or states must give the party at least 4 seats in the Lok Sabha. The party must win at least 11 seats from at least three different states, or 2% of the total seats available in the Lok Parliament. At least four states must recognise the party as a state party.

TMC MP Saugata Roy stated while reacting to the move by the EC. “Trinamool Congress has overcome many obstacles, we will overcome this too. We will continue to do what we have to do, it will not make any difference.”