Tripura’s political landscape is again ignited with controversy as former Chief Minister and current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Biplab Kumar Deb has levelled serious accusations against the Communist Party of India (Marxist) — claiming the party has become a proxy for Chinese interests. During an outreach event in Agartala, Deb expressed doubts about the CPI(M)’s relevance, portraying it as an entity that has strayed from its national commitments.

Deb remarked, “The CPI(M) has no presence or relevance in modern-day China. But here in India, they pretend to be the torchbearers of Chinese ideology. In reality, they act more like brokers for China than a party committed to Indian interests.” His strong critique comes as the BJP gears up for local elections, further intensifying the already heated political rhetoric. He accused the CPI(M) of failing to deliver meaningful socio-economic reforms during its rule spanning over twenty-five years, arguing that their legacy is one of impoverishment with no significant infrastructure or employment generated during their tenure.

This latest attack fits into a broader narrative promoted by the BJP, casting the CPI(M)’s emphasis on external ideologies as detrimental to national development. Deb argued that the Modi government’s foreign policy exemplifies India’s independent stance in global affairs, in contrast to what he termed the CPI(M)’s “foreign obsession.” His remarks have resonated particularly among BJP supporters, who have echoed sentiments of national pride and accused the CPI(M) of being antiquated and disconnected from contemporary Indian society.

Reactions to Deb’s comments have been swift and varied. While many BJP loyalists rallied in support of Deb’s assertions, CPI(M) leaders condemned his statements as desperate attempts at relevance amid governance challenges faced by the BJP. A senior CPI(M) figure countered, stating, “Biplab Deb is trying to stay politically relevant by attacking us. But people remember his time as CM and the chaos that followed.” Such counterclaims suggest a growing concern within the CPI(M) about its dwindling influence in the wake of the BJP’s rise, especially following the significant loss they faced in the 2018 Tripura Assembly elections.

The diminishing influence of the CPI(M) has sparked broader analyses regarding the changing dynamics in Indian politics. Once a formidable force in Tripura, the CPI(M) has struggled to regain its footing, facing multiple electoral defeats since the BJP took control. Observers note that Deb’s comments may reflect a calculated strategy by the BJP not only to consolidate its power in the state but also to propagate a national discourse that characterises Left parties as relics of a bygone era, overly influenced by foreign ideologies.

At the heart of Deb’s rhetoric lies a clarion call to the youth of Tripura. He urged them to reject any “ideological slavery to China,” framing the BJP’s governance as synonymous with India’s progress. “CPI(M) may try to confuse people with its propaganda, but Tripura is not going back. We will not allow agents of a foreign ideology to slow down our development,” he declared emphatically.

As the political backdrop continues to shift with upcoming elections, the tension between the BJP and the CPI(M) reveals deep-rooted ideological divides that not only shape local governance but also reflect larger national narratives. In a state where socio-economic conditions remain a focal point for voters, the BJP seems determined to enhance its legitimacy by portraying itself as a champion of national interests.

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Source: Noah Wire Services