The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) has called for a renewed focus on the INDIA bloc, the opposition coalition formed to challenge the ruling parties, especially after the recent Assembly elections revealed troubling trends. In a statement released on May 25, the party criticized the Congress, the principal member of this coalition, for its actions that appear contradictory to the goal of fostering unity among secular opposition forces against the dominant Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
During a meeting of its Central Committee held in New Delhi from May 22 to 24, the CPI(M) expressed discontent with Congress's approach, stating, “The attitude of the Congress towards other opposition parties is not helpful in building the unity of secular forces in a united fight against the RSS-BJP, which is the need of the hour.” The party condemned the unfounded allegations suggesting a secret alliance with the BJP during the Kerala elections, labeling them as baseless and malicious.
- Setback in Kerala elections — The CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) lost its last stronghold in Kerala, leading to a review of strategies across various states.
- Corrective measures planned — The party plans to gather feedback from its Kerala state committee to address identified weaknesses and implement corrective measures.
- Concerns over BJP's expansion — Although acknowledging the BJP's limited seat count in the South, the CPI(M) expressed alarm over its growing influence.
In light of these developments, the Central Committee noted the positive outcome of the CPI(M)'s re-entry into the West Bengal Assembly, where it secured a victory for one candidate after a significant defeat in the 2021 elections. Additionally, a party member was elected as an Independent in Mahe, Puducherry. The CPI(M) is not only focused on internal reviews but also on addressing larger socio-economic issues that have emerged post-elections.
The statement also highlighted the ongoing economic crisis, emphasizing rising unemployment rates, distress among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and agricultural challenges due to fertilizer shortages. The party criticized the government for its handling of the economy, pointing to the falling value of the rupee, dwindling foreign exchange reserves, and sharp increases in fuel prices. The CPI(M) pledged to mobilize public resistance against these austerity measures and hikes in essential commodities.
Moreover, the CPI(M) expressed opposition to the new VBGRAMG Act, which is set to replace the MGNREGA, arguing that it undermines rural employment and relies excessively on digital systems that may disenfranchise workers. The party also condemned the immediate implementation of new labor codes after the elections, insisting that amendments are necessary to safeguard workers' rights. Rising atrocities against women, Dalits, and Adivasis were also condemned, with the CPI(M) citing specific cases of violence and systemic failures under the BJP government.
On a broader scale, the CPI(M) denounced U.S. policies towards countries like Cuba, Iran, Palestine, and Venezuela, committing to an anti-imperialist campaign in June. The party also plans to advocate for women’s reservation and voting rights while opposing the recent notifications related to labor laws.
