As elections are drawing nearer in West Bengal, efforts are being made to trade rhetorics and populism for winning the people desperately seeking a change. Independent political analysts believe that this feeling is similar to what Bengal witnessed during the 34 years of the CPM rule in the state; brought to an end after Mamata Banerjee’s TMC celebrated victory in the 2011 assembly elections in the state. But I would like to differ in all my humility from what these political pundits and analysts maintain, believe and have observed so far.
It is elaborated in the BJPs reckless pursuit for driving the content, charge and change in the minds of the people. With a focus on strengthening people’s cultural and civilisational ties with “Maa, Maati and Manush” intertwined in Hindutva, makes up for an interesting watch in these elections. Though these were the punchlines of TMC, but with a distinguishing difference as their method and model of governance uniquely articulated the aspirations of the common and ordinary. Equally honouring and representing the plurality of faith, ideas and values which may not be the case at all with what the BJP is aspiring for in Bengal.
I agree that they have all the legitimate authority to present themselves as an alternative by questioning the wrongs committed during Mamta’s tenure. But the way they have chosen to highlight it is itself questionable if not for stoking communal polarisation in the state by creating a rift between different communities and groups. Should this be the purpose of one’s power? How will it encourage “Sabka Saath Sabka Vishwas”, in the words of “Pradhan Sewak” Narendra Modi Ji?
Also, why do they want to profit from the internal bickerings within the rank and file of the TMC as they are not in a position to restrict factional feuds in their party organisation settling by passing the buck to the TMC. As though Trinamool is a panacea for all their hardships, maybe this can be better answered by Amit Shah Ji.
As for the pressing issues at large in Bengal, an average voter would expect for a better clarity than chaos and confusion as is the situation in Bengal at present. Who knows as for a Prashant Kishor dominating the discourse from behind the curtains.
Let’s not make any guesses at the moment.