CPI(M) Calls for 'INDIA Bloc-Plus' Amid CEC Row & Alleged Power Misuse
CPI(M) Calls for 'INDIA Bloc-Plus' Amid CEC Row & Alleged Power Misuse
CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby urges broader Opposition unity, 'INDIA Bloc-Plus', to resist alleged CEC power misuse and BJP influence. A crucial INDIA Bloc meeting is set for September 30th to discuss the 'critical
In a significant development, Communist Part of India (Marxist) general secretary M.A. Baby has called for the formation of an 'INDIA Bloc-Plus' - an expanded coalition of Opposition parties and civil society organisations. The objective, he stated, is to collectively resist what he describes as the “misuse” of power by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, allegedly with the backing of the ruling BJP leadership.
Mr. Baby's remarks, made in Thiruvananthapuram, follow reports of his discussions with All-India Trinamool Congress leader and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
These talks are part of an effort to build a more robust national opposition framework.
The existing INDIA Bloc is slated to convene in New Delhi on September 30th to hold further discussions on these pressing matters.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Mr. Baby asserted that Indian politics is currently navigating “critical moments.” He highlighted how the alleged misuse of power by the CEC has been brought to light.
While acknowledging the crucial role of the INDIA Bloc in fostering resistance, he stressed the necessity for an 'INDIA Bloc-Plus' approach, advocating for the inclusion of all Opposition entities, civil society groups, and even emerging political forces like the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
Mr. Baby pointed out that the expose has revealed how a “basic, democratic and transparent task,” specifically the Special Intensive Revision of the electoral roll, which should have been managed by the Election Commission, was virtually undermined by the CEC. This allegedly occurred despite reservations and objections from his own colleagues.
He further questioned, “But it is not just a question of whether he is forced to resign, but with whose support he did the illegal things.
They also should be held to account.”
Detailing his outreach, Mr.
Baby confirmed he had corresponded with Ms.
Banerjee as part of engaging various Opposition parties nationwide.
He mentioned that their conversation touched upon the “state of affairs” in the country and how the Election Commission has been “hijacked” by the ruling party. Ms. Banerjee reportedly conveyed to him her concerns about being denied democratic rights in West Bengal, including restrictions on mixing with people and organizing protest programmes under the current administration.
