BENGAL
CONUNDRUM
1977-2011
PART—I/CPI (M)
SARASIJ
MAJUMDER
The
Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] won and ruled West Bengal for
continuous thirty-four years primarily due to a combination of strategic
political moves, strong organizational structure, and various socio-economic
factors. The CPI(M) came to power in West Bengal in 1977 and held onto power
until 2011. Here are some key factors that contributed to their prolonged rule:
- Land Reforms: The
CPI(M) government under Chief Minister Jyoti Basu , and particularly from
the dedicated effort of Mr. Hare Krishna KONGAR, implemented significant
land reforms that aimed to redistribute land from large landowners to
landless peasants. This policy resonated with the rural population and
garnered support from the agrarian communities, for more than one
generation..
- Peasant
Movements: The CPI(M) had strong ties to peasant and agricultural labour
movements, particularly in rural areas. It started with “TE-VAGA”. Their
focus on addressing rural issues and championing the cause of the
marginalized sections of society gained them grassroot support.
- Industrial
Workers: The CPI(M) was influential in organizing industrial workers
and labour unions. They supported workers' rights and gained popularity
among the industrial working class, which played a crucial role in their
electoral success. But the aggressive union movement, and STRIKES was a
negative strategy. This was closing
down the Industries, but the effect
was felt later.
- Mass
Mobilization: The party built a robust organizational structure with
grassroots cadres and a vast network of party workers. This allowed them
to mobilize voters effectively during elections and other campaigns.
- Left Front
Alliance: The CPI(M) led the Left Front alliance, which included
other left-wing parties. This broad coalition appealed to a wide range of
voters, including workers, peasants, and intellectuals. This also
eliminated vote sharing.
- Political
Stability: The CPI(M)-led government provided a sense of political
stability in a state that had previously seen political turmoil and small period of frequent changes in
leadership. This appealed to voters who sought stability in governance.
- Strategic
Alliances: The CPI(M) formed alliances with various social and
cultural organizations, giving them a broader base of support beyond their
traditional voter base.
- Education and
Culture: The CPI(M) government emphasized on education and culture, which appealed to a
part of intellectual class and all
students. Their support for the arts, literature, and education helped
create a positive image among various sections of society. ALSAO REFER SL.NO. 11 BELOW ON EDUCATION..
- Populist
Policies: The CPI(M) government implemented various welfare and
populist policies, including subsidized food and healthcare programs,
which endeared them to the masses.
- Efficient Party
Machinery: The CPI(M) had a disciplined and efficient party machinery
that maintained a strong presence at the grassroots level, which
translated into better election results.
- There were quite a few condemnable aberrations, mainly being “MARICHJHANPI”—but ELECTORATE mostly ignored that. Worst is destroying West Bengal's excellent Educational system, Public Medical system, along with Industries built over 100 years.. This lead to Large Scale Unemployment.
- Mr. Jyoti Basu handed
over the control to Mr. Buddhadeb Dasgupta—who was not a competent
political leader, though he
was an educated BHADRALOK. Mr. Basu
warned him not to contest Mamata Banerjee in politics of Dharna, Hunger
Strike, and similar Drama oriented
Mass movement.
- He fell in the same
trap twice, last at Singur, and
lost Election in 2011.
- CPI (M)'S SUN SET IN BAY OF BENGAL,
AFTER 34 YEARS OF RULE. POSSIBLY, NEVER
TO RISE AGAIN.
Sources:-
1.0
GANASHAKTI—few old issues.
3.0All
information are in Public Domain, and OLD ABP . One can search in Google.
Image:
Google/ GANASWHAKTI
Comments
Post a Comment