Tripura: CPI(M) accuses BJP of using police to target Manik Sarkar

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura of targeting its veteran leader and former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar through a series of police complaints. The ruling party has filed complaints in multiple police stations against Mr. Sarkar over a statement he made at a recent rally, claiming it could incite unrest.

At the rally, Mr. Sarkar reportedly called for a "Jangi-type" protest to remove the BJP government, which he described as promoting atrocious, anti-people, and divisive policies. The Bengali term "Jangi" is often used by political leaders in the region to describe a vigorous or stringent agitation. It does not inherently carry a connotation of violence.

The BJP, however, has asserted that the word "Jangi" is linked to militancy and violence. The party has also pointed to past instances of CPI(M)-sponsored violence in the state, arguing that such rhetoric cannot be taken lightly. The police complaints accuse Mr. Sarkar of instigating unrest and attempting to disrupt public order.

Reacting to the complaints, Mr. Sarkar dismissed them as a "sinister ploy" to divert public attention from substantive issues. "I believe they have been scared over our resolve to fight them politically, thus they have adopted this tactic," he said, expressing confidence that the people would see through the move.

Supporting Mr. Sarkar, senior CPI(M) leader and former Deputy Speaker of the Tripura Assembly, Pabitra Kar, said on Monday that the BJP, which itself frequently engages in objectionable rhetoric, was now involved in a futile exercise. "People understand what is going on and would not get confused from the real issues," he remarked.

The confrontation comes amid an ongoing political rivalry in Tripura, where the BJP and CPI(M) have been engaged in a bitter struggle for influence. The CPI(M) has previously accused the state government of arresting its workers on what it calls "flimsy grounds". Mr. Sarkar, who served as Chief Minister for two decades, remains a significant political figure in the state.

Political analysts note that the use of terms like "Jangi" in public speeches is not uncommon in the region, but its interpretation often depends on the political context. The differing readings of the word highlight the deep polarisation in Tripura's political discourse.

While the police complaints against Mr. Sarkar are being processed, the CPI(M) has vowed to continue its political campaign against the BJP government. The party has urged its workers to remain peaceful and law-abiding while exercising their democratic right to protest.

Observers emphasise the importance of maintaining constitutional norms and allowing democratic dissent without the threat of legal action for legitimate political speech. The handling of this case will be closely watched as it could set a precedent for political discourse in the state.