BJP Files Complaint with ECI Against Trinamool Candidate for Involving Foreign Nationals in Campaign

Synopsis

The BJP has lodged a formal complaint with the ECI against Trinamool Congress candidate Aditi Munshi, alleging her use of foreign nationals in her election campaign. This unprecedented action raises questions about electoral integrity and legal compliance.

Key Takeaways

BJP has filed a complaint against Trinamool Congress candidate Aditi Munshi.

Allegations involve the use of foreign nationals in campaign activities.

This practice is claimed to violate multiple Indian laws .

The BJP demands strict action from the Election Commission .

This incident raises significant questions about electoral integrity .

Kolkata, April 13 (NationPress) - The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has formally lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Trinamool Congress candidate Aditi Munshi, who is also the sitting MLA for the Rajarhat-Gopalpur Assembly constituency in North 24 Parganas. Munshi, renowned for her devotional singing, is accused of including foreign nationals in her election campaigning for the upcoming polls later this month.

The BJP's complaint states, "It has come to light that the current MLA from the Trinamool Congress, Aditi Munshi, has involved foreign nationals, particularly individuals of Nigerian descent, in her campaign activities and rallies. This involvement of foreign nationals in political campaigning is both unprecedented and illegal under Indian legislation. Reports indicate that these individuals participated actively in the campaign, donning Trinamool Congress logos, waving party flags, and vocally supporting Munshi, thus promoting a political party to the electorate directly," as cited in the complaint submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office in West Bengal.

The BJP has included a video showcasing these foreign nationals at Munshi's campaign rally.

Furthermore, the BJP contends that these actions violate the Visa Norms, the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Foreigners Act, 1946.

The letter emphasizes, "Under our established laws, violating visa conditions can lead to immediate criminal repercussions, including imprisonment. There is no legal provision that allows foreigners to solicit votes from the Indian populace on behalf of any political party or candidate."

In their correspondence with the West Bengal CEO's office, the BJP has called for stringent measures against Munshi, demanding that she be prohibited from further campaigning due to her infringement on the integrity of India's electoral and democratic framework.

Additionally, the BJP has requested the Commission to take action by removing the contentious video from all online platforms and URLs, revoking the visas of the involved foreign nationals, and facilitating their immediate deportation from India.

Point of View

The BJP's complaint against Aditi Munshi sheds light on the complexities of electoral laws. This situation demands thorough investigation to uphold the integrity of the democratic process, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and adherence to legal frameworks in political campaigning.

NationPress

30 Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main allegation against Aditi Munshi?

The BJP alleges that Aditi Munshi has involved foreign nationals in her election campaign, which is against Indian law.

What laws are being violated according to the BJP's complaint?

The BJP claims violations of the Visa Norms, Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Foreigners Act, 1946.

What actions has the BJP requested from the Election Commission?

The BJP has requested strict action against Munshi, removal of a contentious video, and deportation of the foreign nationals involved.

Who is Aditi Munshi?

Aditi Munshi is a sitting legislator and a candidate from the Trinamool Congress, known for her devotional singing.

When are the Assembly polls scheduled?