CPM Will Regain Lost Political Ground in Tripura, Bengal, said M.A. Baby
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPIM] is gearing up to regain its lost political ground in Tripura and West Bengal, according to the party’s National General Secretary M.A. Baby. Speaking at the CPIM Tripura state headquarters on Sunday, Baby emphasized that revitalizing the party’s influence in these states is the top priority.
‘Regaining the lost ground in Tripura and West Bengal are the key priorities in front of the party’
‘Regaining the lost ground in Tripura and West Bengal are the key priorities in front of the party,’ Baby stated. He highlighted that the recently concluded state conference, held ahead of the 24th party congress, focused on drafting a strategic roadmap to bring the party back to power. Discussions centered around concerted efforts to strengthen the organization and reinstate public support in the two states, once regarded as CPIM strongholds.
Background: The Decline of CPIM in Tripura and West Bengal
The CPIM, historically dominant in Tripura and West Bengal, has faced significant setbacks in recent years. In Tripura, the BJP’s rise marked a shift in political allegiance, ending the 25-year-long Left Front rule in the 2018 Assembly elections. Similarly, in West Bengal, the CPIM’s political influence diminished significantly after being ousted by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2011. The erosion of grassroots support and the BJP’s emergence as a formidable force have posed persistent challenges.
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The CPIM’s recent party congress aimed to address these issues, focusing on rebuilding grassroots connections and mobilizing support. The strategy includes addressing unemployment and social challenges faced by people in Tripura, as highlighted by Baby. ‘We have been facing undemocratic attacks in Tripura. People in general are finding it very hard to get work here. Mass migration in search of work is a reality. We have resolved to address these real problems,’ he remarked.
Taking a Stand Against the BJP
Baby criticized the ruling BJP government for its handling of social issues and accused it of perpetuating undemocratic practices. He expressed concerns about the increasing outmigration of workers from Tripura, attributing it to the lack of job opportunities. According to Baby, the CPIM is committed to providing solutions to these issues as part of its broader political agenda.
The CPIM leader also emphasized the party’s commitment to uniting secular and democratic forces ahead of the upcoming elections. ‘Bihar is the first state going to the polls after our party congress. We have decided to rally all secular democratic forces under one roof to fight the common political adversary,’ Baby announced.
Concerns Over Indo-Pak Border Tensions
During his address, Baby also touched upon the recent tensions between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives. The sudden ceasefire declaration, which the United States initially announced, raised questions about India’s stance and involvement. ‘It is peculiar that the ceasefire was first announced by the United States,’ Baby noted.
He demanded a clear response from the Indian government, questioning how the ceasefire was negotiated through a phone conversation between the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan and his Indian counterpart. He reiterated the CPIM’s stance on peaceful resolution without third-party involvement while emphasizing the need for stringent measures against terrorism.
Uniting the Left and Democratic Forces
The CPIM’s renewed efforts to build alliances with secular and democratic parties signify a strategic pivot. Baby’s visit to Tripura comes in the wake of the 24th party congress, where the need for a collective opposition to the BJP was a focal point.
State secretary Jitendra Chaudhury and Left Front Convenor Manik Dey, who were also present at the press briefing, echoed Baby’s sentiments. They affirmed the party’s commitment to addressing social challenges and revitalizing its base.
As the CPIM gears up for future elections, its leadership underscores the importance of unity among left and democratic forces. The party’s plan to reclaim its political relevance reflects both a recognition of past mistakes and a strategy to rebuild influence, particularly in regions where its presence has waned.
