Why is the Bengal CPI(M) Opposing the Governor's Mention of Article 356?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the CPI(M) in West Bengal has allied with the ruling Trinamool Congress against the Governor's suggestion to invoke Article 356, citing historical failures of President's Rule. This unexpected support raises questions about political strategies and the future of governance in the state amidst growing communal tensions.
Key Takeaways
- CPI(M) supports Trinamool Congress against Governor's Article 356 suggestion.
- Governor's proposal raises concerns about political stability.
- Historical failures of President's Rule cited by CPI(M).
- Criticism of Governor's report as politically biased.
- Call for effective governance in West Bengal.
Kolkata, May 5 (NationPress) The West Bengal government and the ruling Trinamool Congress have gained remarkable backing from their political adversary, the CPI(M), regarding the suggestions made by Governor C.V. Ananda Bose. He proposed that the Union government explore the provisions of Article 356 of the Indian Constitution in relation to the communal unrest in Murshidabad district.
The CPI(M) state secretary and politburo member, Md Salim, declared on Monday that transferring authority from the state government to the Governor through President’s Rule will not resolve West Bengal's issues.
“It is clear that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also serves as the state home minister and police minister, has significantly faltered in maintaining order. However, this does not imply that problems will be rectified by shifting power to the Governor under President's Rule,” Salim stated.
He noted that the residents of West Bengal have had negative experiences with President's Rule in the past.
“The Pahalgam massacre was not averted through state bifurcation or its conversion into a Union Territory. Similarly, the lives of people in Manipur remain endangered despite a double-engine government. In West Bengal, the elected government must ensure the safety of its citizens. President’s Rule is not the answer; history shows that issues with President's Rule are more severe,” Salim added.
Previously, numerous Trinamool Congress leaders strongly condemned the Governor's recommendation for the Union government to consider invoking Article 356. The state general secretary of the Trinamool Congress labeled the Governor's report as biased and aligned with the BJP's political agenda.
West Bengal's Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Agriculture, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, asserted that the recommendations in the Governor's report were biased and made under the Union government's direction. “It’s expected that the Governor will present negative views about West Bengal in his report,” Chattopadhyay remarked.
In the report, the Governor emphasized the West Bengal government's failure to manage communal violence, despite having previously addressed Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) threats effectively.
The report also pointed out deficiencies in West Bengal's police infrastructure, notably a lack of manpower and inadequate equipment, often necessitating the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) during crises like the situation in Murshidabad.
Point of View
The unexpected alliance between the CPI(M) and the Trinamool Congress reflects the complexities of regional politics. Both parties, despite their historical rivalry, recognize the potential pitfalls of President's Rule amid rising communal tensions. This situation emphasizes the need for effective governance rather than political maneuvering, as the citizens of West Bengal seek stability and safety.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Article 356?
Article 356 of the Indian Constitution allows the President to assume control of a state government if it is unable to function according to the Constitution, often referred to as President's Rule.
Why is the CPI(M) supporting the Trinamool Congress?
The CPI(M) is supporting the Trinamool Congress in opposing the Governor's suggestion to invoke Article 356, as they believe it will not solve the underlying issues of governance in West Bengal.
What were the criticisms of the Governor's report?
Critics, including Trinamool Congress leaders, have described the Governor's report as biased and politically motivated, asserting that it serves the agenda of the BJP.
What historical examples were cited against President's Rule?
Md Salim referenced the Pahalgam massacre and the ongoing issues in Manipur as examples where President's Rule did not resolve underlying problems.
What are the implications of the current political dynamics in West Bengal?
The current dynamics suggest a need for collaborative governance amidst communal tensions, highlighting the importance of effective leadership over political rivalries.
