Manik Sarkar Slams BJP for 'Misusing Election Commission' at Sonamura Event

In a sharply worded attack on the BJP-led central government, veteran CPI(M) leader and former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar accused the ruling party of undermining democratic institutions, including attempts to influence the Election Commission for political gain.

The remarks came during a special event organized at Sonamura Town Hall, held to mark the birthday of CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury. Sarkar did not hold back, alleging that the BJP government is "choking democracy while wearing its mask."

"Election Commission Being Used as a Tool"

Sarkar criticized the government's recent move to revise the voter list just months ahead of upcoming elections, despite the official list having already been updated earlier in the year.

“Why another revision now? This casts doubt on the fairness of the electoral process. It is a clear sign that the BJP is desperate to hold onto power—by any means necessary,” he said.

“Democracy is Under Siege”

In a scathing remark, Sarkar stated:

“On the outside, BJP wears the mask of democracy, but within, it is suffocating democratic values.”

Veteran CPI(M) leader and former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar addressing a public meeting in Sonamura, voicing serious concerns over the BJP's attempts to manipulate democratic institutions.

He also accused the party of leaning on its alliance in Bihar to stay afloat and now attempting to rely on the Election Commission for a political advantage.

Economic, Social, and Political Rights at Risk

Sarkar went further, highlighting the larger issues plaguing the country under BJP’s governance—rising unemployment, price inflation, and a shrinking space for dissent.

“The rights of the working class are being eroded. Farmers are ignored. People's voices are being silenced through undemocratic actions.”

Call for Mass Movement

Urging CPI(M) workers and supporters to take to the streets, Manik Sarkar stressed that criticism alone is not enough.

“We must organize people. We must resist. We must fight to protect democracy and constitutional values.”

Other CPI(M) leaders present included MLA Shyamal Chakraborty, Ratan Saha, Suresh Das, and Jasmine Sultana, all of whom echoed Sarkar’s concerns and pledged intensified protests in the coming days.

A Politically Charged Moment

Political analysts believe Manik Sarkar’s statement carries significant weight ahead of the upcoming elections. His continued influence among Left supporters could serve to energize opposition sentiment and challenge BJP’s stronghold in Tripura.

“His comments will not only boost party morale but may also amplify growing public frustration with the central government,” noted one observer.

Clear Message from Sonamura

The Sonamura meeting concluded with a resounding message:To safeguard democracy and the rights of ordinary people, street-level resistance is essential. The CPI(M) has signaled that bigger struggles are ahead, and they are preparing for it.