CPI(M) Polit Bureau condemns GoI policies, expresses electoral concerns

Srinagar, Aug 19: The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) convened on Monday, August 18, 2025, to address pressing national issues amid ongoing crises across the country. The meeting issued a detailed communique condemning recent natural disasters, political developments, economic policies, electoral concerns, and international relations, with a focus on safeguarding democratic rights and opposing government policies.The Polit Bureau, according to a statement issued here, expressed deep condolences for over a hundred lives lost in recent natural calamities in Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising the urgent need to address climate change impacts in the Himalayan region. They criticised the government’s response to these disasters, calling for increased disaster preparedness and environmental action.A significant portion of the communique targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech. The CPI(M) condemned Modi’s references to the RSS, accusing him of attempting to legitimise the organisation, which the party states has no role in India’s freedom struggle. They also strongly opposed the announcement of a ‘Demographic Mission’, arguing it could be exploited to target Muslim minorities under the pretext of identifying infiltrators, thereby exacerbating communal tensions.Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, the Polit Bureau lamented that five years after the abrogation of Article 370, promises of development and normalcy remain unfulfilled. They demanded the restoration of statehood and autonomy, condemning ongoing security and political failures in the region.On economic policies, the CPI(M) criticised the recent reduction in GST rates announced ahead of Diwali. They argued that the benefits of tax cuts should be passed on to consumers rather than being absorbed by corporate interests. The party called on the Union government to compensate states for potential revenue losses, emphasising the need for equitable economic measures.Electoral reforms in Bihar came under sharp scrutiny. The communique condemned the controversial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, initiated without adequate consultation, which the party claims risks disenfranchising millions, particularly minorities, women, and marginalised communities. The opposition’s protests and the 16-day ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ were praised as vital efforts to defend democratic rights.Concerns over the neutrality of the Election Commission were also raised, especially in light of a recent vote-rigging scandal in a Bengaluru assembly constituency. The CPI(M) accused the Commission of bias, favouring the ruling BJP and criticised its dismissive response to allegations. The opposition’s protests in Parliament and outside reflect mounting discontent over electoral injustices.The communique further condemned the government’s failure to debate key issues during the monsoon session, while criticising the passage of contentious bills on sports, mining, and nuclear energy, which the party warns threaten national interests. They urged opposition parties to oppose these measures.Internationally, the CPI(M) criticised the US for imposing 50% tariffs on India, citing adverse effects on agriculture, MSMEs, and inflation, and called for diversifying foreign relations and resisting US pressure—particularly concerning energy dependence on Russia.The communique concluded with a call for the Maharashtra government to appeal against the High Court’s acquittal in the Malegaon blasts case, citing alleged communal bias. It also expressed support for opposition candidate Justice B. Sudershan Reddy in the upcoming Vice Presidential elections.