Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Jul 22: CPI(M) Politburo member and West Bengal State Secretary Md Salim on Wednesday expressed solidarity with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who were detained in New Delhi during protests over the alleged NEET paper leak, and called for greater unity among parties opposing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
While reiterating his criticism of the Congress, Salim acknowledged, albeit indirectly, the role of Rahul Gandhi in bringing together anti-BJP forces across the country.
Referring to the ongoing student-led agitation in the national capital, Salim said the protest had continued for nearly 20 days without significant participation from the Congress initially. However, he said the party's leadership, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, had eventually taken a clear stand by joining the movement.
He said the CPI(M)'s national leadership had also participated in the protest to express solidarity with the demonstrators, adding that such collective support would strengthen the morale of people, particularly in northern India.
According to Salim, all political parties opposed to the BJP, along with citizens resisting the ruling party's policies, must work together to build a united front.
His remarks came while addressing a protest organised in central Kolkata by the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the CPI(M).
The demonstration, originally planned near the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) headquarters, was shifted to Raja Subodh Mallick Square after permission for the rally was denied. The protest focused on issues including alleged corruption in municipal bodies and the eviction of street vendors.
Addressing the gathering, Salim launched a sharp attack on the BJP, alleging that the party was increasingly relying on displays of force.
He compared the use of bulldozers in various states to the alleged police action against protesters in Delhi, claiming both reflected an attempt to project power.
Salim also targeted Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing him of acting as an intermediary rather than addressing the concerns of students.
Without providing evidence, he alleged that BJP ministers had failed to respond to the aspirations of young people and claimed that families of those who participated in the Delhi protests had recognised the government's approach.
Emphasising the need for collective political action, Salim said unity among Opposition parties was essential to challenge the BJP. He also raised concerns over employment opportunities, alleging that vacancies in sectors such as the railways, banking and postal services remained unfilled.
Condemning the police action at Jantar Mantar, Salim alleged that force had been used against students and youth instead of criminals or corrupt individuals. He further accused the Delhi Police of acting against peaceful protesters and failing to uphold their impartial role.