On May Day, former CM of Tripura Manik Sarkar accuses BJP of eroding constitutional values through systematic attacks on democracy.
Agartala, May 1: Veteran CPIM leader and former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, while addressing a gathering in Agartala on the occasion of May Day (Labour Day) , launched a scathing attack on capitalism, American imperialism, and the ruling BJP government, accusing it of undermining India’s democratic and secular fabric.
Delivering a nearly 50-minute-long speech to commemorate International Workers’ Day, Sarkar described May Day as more than just a celebration of labour—it is a “political dawn” that signifies a renewed call for unity among the working class and a resolute march towards a classless society based on socialist ideals.
He went on explaining the historical background of the May Day and how events unfolded prior to first May Day (Labour Day) observance on May 1, 1889.
Capitalism and the Struggle for Socialism
Calling for a collective resistance to the “exploitative grip of capitalism,” Sarkar emphasized the relevance of socialism in the current era. He said, “May Day (International Workers’ Day) is no longer just a historic remembrance; it is the beginning of a new struggle to break free from capitalist exploitation and move toward a just and egalitarian society.”
He pointed to the successes of socialist countries like China and Vietnam as proof that socialism can deliver growth and prosperity without compromising the principles of equity and collective welfare.
Allegations Against BJP and the Rise of Fascism
In a blistering critique of the ruling party, Sarkar alleged that the BJP, guided by its ideological parent RSS, is attempting to establish a fascist regime in the country.
He accused the government of subverting democratic institutions and manipulating the electoral process
“By taking control of the Election Commission, the BJP has turned the democratic process into a farce,” he said, expressing concern over what he called the systematic dismantling of democratic norms and practices.
Secularism Under Threat
Sarkar also raised alarm over the attacks on secularism, claiming that the BJP is deliberately targeting religious minorities to polarize society and trying to establish Hindu Rashtra.
“The idea of a Hindu Rashtra is being propagated not in the spirit of religion, but as a political tool to fuel fanaticism and divide the people,” he said.
I Listen part of Manik Sarkar’s speech l
He warned that while Muslims have been at the forefront of these attacks, Christians are also increasingly being targeted—and cautioned that even Buddhists may not remain unaffected in the future.
Judiciary and Federal Structure ‘Under Siege’
The CPIM leader further accused the BJP-led central government of trying to weaken independent institutions like the judiciary. He alleged that through legislative manoeuvring in Parliament, the government is working to reduce the autonomy and authority of the judicial system.
Sarkar also criticized the Centre’s misuse of the office of Governors in states ruled by non-BJP governments, calling it a tactic to destabilize opposition-led administrations and interfere in state matters.
In this connection, Sarkar mentioned delay in signing several public welfare related Bills passed by the different Assemblies in non-BJP ruled States. He, however, hailed the Supreme Court verdict to this end in favour of the States and against the concerned Governors.
Call for Resistance
Asserting that the socio-political crisis is deepening, Sarkar urged the people to stay vigilant and resist the ongoing assaults on democracy, secularism, and institutional independence. He called upon workers and the general public to unite in the spirit of May Day and take the struggle forward.
“The true face of those in power is becoming clearer every day. They are attacking the pillars of our democracy to maintain their control. It is our duty to rise and resist,” he concluded.
