In a significant shift, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has altered its position on the BJP-led government, refraining from labeling it as fascist. While the party has previously been vocal in its criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, terming it an authoritarian nationalist force, its latest resolution takes a more measured stance.
CPM Acknowledges Neo-Fascist Tendencies but Avoids ‘Fascist’ Tag
The CPM’s draft resolution states that the Modi government exhibits neo-fascist tendencies but does not qualify as a full-fledged fascist regime. The party noted that after a decade in power, the BJP-RSS has consolidated political control, yet it stops short of categorizing the government as fascist. Instead, the resolution points to the emergence of certain neo-fascist traits within the BJP.
CPI, Congress Condemn CPM’s Position
The CPI and Congress have strongly criticized the CPM’s shift, accusing the party of covertly aligning with the BJP. The Congress alleged that the CPM has maintained undisclosed ties with the BJP and even struck a secret electoral deal ahead of the Kerala elections. CPI Kerala State Secretary Binoy Viswam urged the CPM to revise its resolution, arguing that the BJP government actively promotes fascist ideology by leveraging religion for political gains.
Meanwhile, a joint CPM-Congress meeting is scheduled in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, on April 24. The CPM’s central committee has circulated its draft political resolution to state committees for discussion. The CPI-ML has taken a stronger position, asserting that fascism has already taken root in India and criticizing the CPM for failing to explicitly call out the Modi government as fascist.
BJP Welcomes CPM’s Stand
The BJP has welcomed the CPM’s position, stating that it undermines Congress’s allegations against the ruling party. BJP leaders expressed satisfaction, asserting that the CPM has belatedly recognized the reality. However, the shift in the CPM’s stance—after previously branding the BJP as fascist—has triggered intense political debate and speculation.