As the eagerly anticipated by-elections in two Tripura assembly constituencies draw near, opposition political parties in the state have embarked on a path of unity to counter the ruling BJP’s dominance. However, recent developments have stirred confusion and disappointment among these opposition forces, particularly after the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPIM, announced its candidate choices for the Dhanpur and Boxanagar constituencies. This move has left both the Congress and TIPRA Motha, a regional party, disheartened and contemplating fielding their own candidates.
Initially, the opposition had sought to present a unified front against the BJP, aiming to thwart its “divide and conquer” strategy by preventing the splitting of anti-BJP votes. This unity was expected to culminate in a joint candidate for both constituencies after discussions among the three parties.
Pradesh Congress President Asish Kumar Saha conveyed his disappointment with CPIM’s abrupt candidate announcements. He stressed that despite ideological differences, the goal was to unite against the BJP’s rule. Saha expressed concern that CPIM’s unilateral decisions could dilute this objective. He indicated that discussions were underway within the party leadership to determine the appropriate response to the current situation.
Animesh Debbarma, the leader of the opposition from TIPRA Motha, revealed that CPIM had not engaged in any meaningful discussion before unveiling their candidates. While the earlier conversations centered around the broader political landscape and the opposition’s stance, this move caught them off guard. Debbarma hinted at the possibility of TIPRA Motha putting forth candidates for both constituencies, but decisions would only be taken after further deliberation.
In contrast, CPIM State Secretary and MLA Jiten Choudhury clarified that the candidates were chosen after discussions with Congress and TIPRA Motha leaders. He cited the CPIM’s historical involvement in both constituencies during the 2023 assembly elections as the rationale for their decision. Choudhury emphasized that the Boxanagar seat, which CPIM now seeks, was vacant due to the demise of a CPIM MLA, Shamshul Haque. He expressed confidence in CPIM’s prospects in both constituencies, as they are considered strongholds for the party.
While Choudhury maintained a commitment to a united front against the BJP, the recent developments have underscored the challenges of achieving cohesive opposition amid diverse interests. The upcoming by-elections are poised to be a litmus test for the strength of opposition unity in the face of BJP’s continued influence in Tripura’s political landscape.
