Key Focus on Reviving Electoral Strength and Expanding Influence
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] is set to hold its 24th Party Congress in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, from April 2-6, 2025. The event, crucial for the Left party, will not only elect a new General Secretary but will also address strategies to strengthen the party’s political influence and broaden its mass appeal, especially in key states like West Bengal, Tripura, and Kerala.
Electoral Revival a Priority
Reviving electoral strength in West Bengal and Tripura, along with retaining dominance in Kerala, will dominate discussions at the congress. The CPI(M)'s electoral performance has significantly weakened over the past fifteen years. The draft political resolution, set to be debated and adopted during the congress, emphasizes the urgent need for expansion, noting that the 2024 Lok Sabha election results highlighted stagnation in the party’s growth and influence.
In a recent statement, CPI(M) Politburo coordinator Prakash Karat acknowledged that the party’s declining strength in West Bengal was a significant factor behind its overall diminished electoral presence.
During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, CPI(M) contested 52 seats but secured only four victories: Madurai and Dindigul (Tamil Nadu), Alathur (Kerala), and Sikar (Rajasthan).
Historical Context of CPI(M)'s Decline
The CPI(M)'s decline began notably when it lost West Bengal to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2011, followed by losing Tripura to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2018. The party, which once boasted 43 MPs at its peak in 2004 with a 5.4% national vote share, saw its Lok Sabha representation shrink dramatically to just three MPs by 2019.
Relations with INDIA Bloc and Regional Parties
The CPI(M) is also navigating complexities in alliances, particularly with INDIA bloc partner Congress in Kerala and TMC in West Bengal. The congress will deliberate on the party’s nuanced cooperation with these parties against the ruling BJP. The draft resolution advocates continued collaboration with INDIA bloc parties on common parliamentary issues and selective support for regional parties opposing the BJP, emphasizing alignment on policies beneficial to the people.
Addressing the Rise of "Neo-Fascist Characteristics"
Another prominent discussion will revolve around confronting "neo-fascist characteristics," identified by CPI(M) in the BJP-led central government's governance. While the party has clarified that it does not label the Narendra Modi government or the Indian state itself as "neo-fascist," it asserts that policies and actions of the government reflect growing authoritarian and reactionary Hindutva tendencies.
Prakash Karat, in an earlier clarification, noted that the party’s internal note was circulated to provide clarity on the concept of neo-fascism for party members.
Special Sessions and Exhibitions
The congress, hosted at Madurai’s Tamukkam grounds, will feature an exhibition highlighting themes of anti-fascism, diversity, and the historical journey of India’s communist movement.
A significant highlight will be a seminar on State Rights, scheduled for April 3, with keynote addresses by prominent leaders including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Karnataka Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, and CPI(M) leader Prakash Karat.
Leadership Transition and Organizational Changes
Organizational restructuring is also anticipated, following the introduction of an age limit of 75 years for Central Committee members. The outgoing Central Committee will propose a list of new candidates, inviting delegates to discuss, raise objections, or propose alternative candidates.
The newly elected Central Committee will subsequently elect the Politburo, including the critical role of General Secretary, left vacant after the passing of Sitaram Yechury last year. Karat has since been serving as interim coordinator.
Presently, the CPI(M) Politburo comprises 16 members, while the Central Committee consists of 83 members.
According to the CPI(M)'s constitution, the All-India Party Congress, convened every three years, remains the party’s highest decision-making body.