Following poll-related violence in West Bengal and the clashes between TMC and BJP activists, the Election Commission on Wednesday invoked Article 324 and suspended campaigning from Thursday night.

Many are questioning the motive of the body in not banning campaigning with immediate effect. Critics are of the view that it's meant to help Narendra Modi, who will be holding two rallies in Bengal on Thursday morning and afternoon.

Mayawati has this to say, "The EC has banned campaigning in Bengal but from 10 pm on Thursday. It's just because the Prime Minister has two rallies during the day. If the EC had to ban all campaigning, then why not from morning itself? This is unfair and EC is acting under pressure. It is clear that Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and other leaders are targeting Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee. It's all planned targeting. This is a very dangerous trend."