BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 11th April 2024: CPIM politburo member and former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on Thursday cautioned that the re-election of the BJP could spell the end of the electoral system in India. “This election could very well be the last one we participate in,” Sarkar predicted, suggesting that the right to vote might be revoked under continued BJP rule. The rally, organized in support of the India Block candidates, also saw the presence of Opposition leader Jitendra Chowdhury.
In a speech at an election rally in Belonia, Sarkar criticized the Prime Minister, accusing him of having no faith in democracy and alleging that the BJP’s governance is dismantling democratic foundations to establish a ‘new democracy.’ He also addressed the contentious issue of citizenship and religion, asserting that the constitution does not mandate adherence to a religion for citizenship and condemned the notion of state favoritism towards any religion.
Highlighting the BJP’s current hold on power despite receiving a minority of votes, Sarkar voiced that the BJP’s fear has led them to adopt undemocratic practices. However, he reassured the public, stating there is no reason to fear.
Chowdhury echoed Sarkar’s sentiments, framing the upcoming Lok Sabha elections as a crucial battle for the preservation of democracy and the constitution. He pointed out that despite the BJP’s governance following a mere 39% vote share in the 2023 assembly elections, a significant 60% of the populace had rejected them, attributing this to the party’s deceptive tactics.
The rally concluded with calls to safeguard democratic values and the constitutional framework, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested Lok Sabha election.
