Are CPI(M) and CPI(ML) at Odds Over BJP and TMC in Bengal Elections?
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Synopsis
As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, the CPI(M) and CPI(ML) Liberation reveal a deep rift over the treatment of TMC and BJP in West Bengal's political arena. Is this division a sign of shifting alliances or a strategic miscalculation in the fight against BJP dominance? Discover the implications of their contrasting positions.
Key Takeaways
- CPI(M) and CPI(ML) Liberation show a significant ideological divide.
- The Trinamool Congress and BJP are viewed differently by each party.
- A revival of leftist forces is deemed necessary to challenge the BJP.
- The Save Bengal march underscores opposition unity against corruption.
- Political dynamics in West Bengal are evolving ahead of the elections.
Kolkata, Nov 18 (NationPress) Despite being allies in the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, the CPI(M) and CPI(ML) Liberation are experiencing significant discord regarding the classification of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and BJP within the political landscape of West Bengal as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.
The General Secretary of CPI(ML) Liberation, Dipankar Bhattacharya, who is currently present in West Bengal for the party's state conference that commenced on Tuesday, informed the media that his party views West Bengal as being governed by the opposition and does not equate the BJP with the Trinamool Congress as rival political forces.
Bhattacharya stated that while CPI(ML) Liberation supports issue-based movements against the Trinamool Congress government, it does not advocate for the replacement of the current regime at the expense of the BJP gaining power.
"Instead, we believe that leftist factions must take the initiative to prevent the BJP from seizing power in the state. A revival of leftist movements is essential; otherwise, the state will not benefit even if the Trinamool Congress government is ousted," remarked the General Secretary of CPI(ML) Liberation.
While the CPI(M) leadership has not officially opposed Bhattacharya's views, sources within the state CPI(M) organization indicate that his perspective is not aligned with the actual conditions in West Bengal.
"Downplaying the Trinamool Congress at the state level could provide the BJP with an opportunity to further penetrate the voter base that they still possess in the state. Therefore, regarding the current political landscape in West Bengal, our leadership has no choice but to regard the Trinamool Congress and BJP as equal adversaries, where clandestine agreements between these two rightist factions will undoubtedly play a significant role," stated a member of the CPI(M) Central committee.
The primary focus of the upcoming 1,000-km "Save Bengal" march by the CPI(M), set to commence on November 29, is aimed at opposing the "corrupt and undemocratic" Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, as well as the "anti-people" BJP-led Union government.
Point of View
The disagreement between CPI(M) and CPI(ML) highlights the complexities within the opposition alliance. As both parties prepare for the upcoming elections, their divergent strategies could significantly impact their effectiveness against the BJP. This situation demands careful observation as political dynamics evolve in West Bengal.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main disagreement between CPI(M) and CPI(ML)?
The CPI(M) and CPI(ML) Liberation are divided over whether to equate the BJP and Trinamool Congress as equal political adversaries in West Bengal.
What does CPI(ML) Liberation's General Secretary claim?
Dipankar Bhattacharya claims that the BJP and Trinamool Congress should not be considered equal enemies, emphasizing the need for leftist forces to prevent BJP's rise.
What is the significance of the 'Save Bengal' march?
The 'Save Bengal' march, starting on November 29, aims to protest against the Trinamool Congress government and the BJP-led Union government.
How does CPI(M) view the situation?
CPI(M) insiders believe that downplaying the Trinamool Congress could inadvertently aid the BJP's electoral prospects in West Bengal.
Why is the political landscape in West Bengal important?
The upcoming elections in West Bengal are crucial as they reflect broader national trends and the effectiveness of opposition forces against BJP's influence.
