The ongoing political scenario in West Bengal let down the state’s progressive bequest
A lot went into the making of the current political dynamics of West Bengal which is not painting a good picture on the canvas of Indian democracy. The partisan polarization has led to unrestrained brutality post-polls and the political rivalry is by far stretched to the grounds of enmity in bad blood. However, the situation will be ill-judged if we account localized rivalry or breakdown of law and order as the only reasons behind the premeditated incidents.
These incidents carrying political patronage, showcased a decline in democracy, moving against the basis and virtue of Indian democracy.
It is in the spirit of a democracy that the leaders and parties are circulated as per the needs of the citizens, which is rightly assumed and legitimized by the political parties.
A democracy is even more strengthened, and the essence is revived with mutually condoned confrontations & head-to-head encounters. In this way, individual leaders & small parties get the courage to contest the dominant force or to join forces when needed.
West Bengal witnessed assassination of BJP-RSS workers, homes and shops were looted & plundered and alleged attacks on women worsened the situation. The dreadful state of affairs portrays democracy dying through elected leaders.
Bengal’s fraternity was shattered with the onset of series of events, starting with partition, communal madness in 1946 & the Direct Action Day. The present political scenario of West Bengal reflects its stained history. Followed faithfully by its successors now, the Machiavellian politics of Marxists is responsible for the violent outbursts in the state.
Though Mamata Banerjee earned prominence fighting against the Marxist hegemonic politics, she is also known for not letting the rivalry to emerge, express or expand. Hence, the rejected battle of ideas and preference for a battle of swords in a state known for its rich intellectual legacy once.
It appears that the Chief Minister of West Bengal is not frightened of a bench of 70 plus MLAs of BJP but of being in a position to answer inconvenient questions. This portrays the diminishing effervescence of the institutional cushions of federalism and democracy both!
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