The Election Commission on Monday showcaused BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar for allegedly making derogatory remarks against the national emblem and Bengal police during an election rally at Taldangra in Bankura.

The EC has asked Majumdar to submit his reply by 8pm on Monday.

The Trinamool Congress on Saturday lodged a complaint with the poll panel, alleging that the BJP state president had on Thursday “during an election rally in poll-bound Taldangra made derogatory statements against the state police and insulted the state emblem of India by suggesting it be replaced with symbols resembling footwear”.

Majumdar also had asked the police to remove the national emblem (Ashoka pillar) from their shoulder strap and cap before working as agents of Trinamool.

The TMC also alleged that the central forces were operating without the mandated presence of the police and were allegedly entering private residences and intimidating voters to influence them in favour of the BJP.

The commission responding to the representation made by the TMC delegation asked Majumdar to submit his reply to the EC by 8pm on Monday.

“In the event of no response from your side within the stipulated time, it will be presumed that you have nothing to say in the matter and the Election Commission will take appropriate action or decision in the matter without making any further reference to you,” the commission in its letter to Majumdar wrote.

Unfazed by the commission’s notice, Majumdar said: “I will reply. I did not say anything wrong. If needed, I will say it again. Police are working for the ruling party, and this needs to be protested.”

Trinamool accused the poll body of deliberately delaying the process and issuing the notice just hours before the campaign’s closure at pm for the November 13 by-polls in six Assembly constituencies.