BJP's Calculated Communal Tactics: Dipankar Bhattacharya's Bold Stance
New Delhi, March 2025:
In a fiercely debated narrative, CPI-ML (Liberation) leader Dipankar Bhattacharya accuses the BJP of orchestrated communal frenzy, designed to divert attention from economic frustrations and waning international alliances. As stated in The Wire India, Bhattacharya argues this tactic is not an impromptu emotional outburst but a part of a larger political strategy.
Mobilization Through Unity
Bhattacharya reflects on recent events, discussing how rallies like the “Badlo Bihar Mahajutaan” mobilized substantial support from diverse community sectors, uniting individuals from ASHA workers to farmers’ unions. This rally wasn’t an isolated event but a continuation of the Badlo Bihar Nyay Yatra, originating in 2024. The gathering’s magnitude, he suggests, reflects growing societal unrest and a deep-seated yearning for change.
Deconstructing BJP’s Strategy
The interview delves into the rising communal tensions in Maharashtra, claiming these are part of BJP’s efforts to recreate another “Sanghi laboratory,” drawing parallels with states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. Bhattacharya points out the unsettling correlation between regional identities and historical conflicts, such as the Maratha-Mughal narrative, being manipulated for political gains.
Opposition’s United Front
Acknowledging the effectiveness of coordinated opposition efforts, Bhattacharya emphasizes the necessity for parties to unite against issues like the National Education Policy (NEP) and language impositions, urging a coordinated nation-wide response. Such collaboration becomes critical as India faces socio-political polarizations over these policies.
The Dynamics of Political Survival
Discussing the uncertain future of the opposition’s INDIA bloc, Bhattacharya remains optimistic about a united front persisting beyond electoral cycles. Despite internal conflicts, he stresses the indispensability of a robust opposition to counterbalance BJP’s policies, calling for reinforced solidarity among all parties.
Caste Dynamics in Bihar Elections
Addressing upcoming Bihar elections, Bhattacharya highlights the evolving nature of caste alliances and emphasizes the Left’s commitment to expanding its influence across districts, advocating for increased reservation policies akin to Tamil Nadu’s. He underscores the imperative for a welfare-oriented development model that prioritizes essential services like education and health over superficial infrastructural projects.
Challenging Neoliberalism
In contrast to CPI(M)’s cautious stance on BJP’s fascism, Bhattacharya labels the BJP as a fascist entity, critiquing the neoliberal policies embraced in parts of India and advocating a return to people-centric governance. His rhetoric insists on safeguarding democratic principles and resisting privatization trends detrimental to public welfare.
Dipankar Bhattacharya’s ambitious vision sets a confrontational tone in India’s political landscape, focusing on unity, opposition to divisive tactics, and proactive policy responses to empower marginalized communities.
