14 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

5 min

Polity & GovernanceNEWS

CPI(M) Open to Congress Cooperation Based on Secular Values

CPI(M) willing to cooperate with Congress if it values secularism.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary M.A. Baby stated that his party is willing to cooperate with the Congress wherever possible, provided the latter recognizes the importance of aligning with secular, democratic, and progressive forces.

This statement comes after the West Bengal Congress announced it would contest independently in the upcoming State Assembly election. Baby emphasized the need to fight against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its political party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Key Facts

CPI(M) is willing to cooperate with Congress if it recognizes the importance of secular forces.

The statement comes after West Bengal Congress announced it would contest independently in the upcoming State Assembly election.

CPI(M) is in alliance with Congress in Bihar and Tamil Nadu.

CPI(M) aims to defeat both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance - Political Parties and their role

GS Paper 1: History - Evolution of political ideologies in India

Potential for questions on coalition politics and secularism

In Simple Words

In simple terms, this means one political party (CPI(M)) is willing to work with another (Congress) if they both agree on certain values. These values include being fair to all religions and supporting democracy. It's like saying, 'We'll team up if we agree on the basic rules'.

India Angle

In India, this kind of agreement is important because of the many different religions and communities. For a shopkeeper, it means that political parties are talking about fairness and equality, which can affect how policies are made and how everyone is treated.

For Instance

Think of it like a neighborhood association deciding to work with another one to improve local parks. They might have different ideas on some things, but they agree that everyone should have access to clean and safe parks.

It matters because when political parties cooperate based on shared values, it can lead to more stable and inclusive governance. This affects everyone's daily life, from the policies that are made to the way communities interact.

Shared values can bridge political divides for the common good.

Visual Insights

West Bengal Political Landscape

Map showing West Bengal, where the Congress will contest independently in the upcoming State Assembly election, influencing potential cooperation with CPI(M).

Loading interactive map...

📍West Bengal

More Information

Background

The history of communist parties in India is rooted in the early 20th century, influenced by socialist and Marxist ideologies. The Communist Party of India (CPI) was formed in 1925. The split in the CPI in 1964 led to the formation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M). This division was primarily due to ideological differences on how to approach the Indian state and the role of the working class. Over the decades, the CPI(M) has played a significant role in Indian politics, particularly in states like West Bengal, Kerala, and Tripura, where it has held power for extended periods. The party's ideology is based on Marxism-Leninism, advocating for the rights of workers and peasants, and opposing what it views as capitalist exploitation. The CPI(M) has often aligned with other left-leaning parties to form alliances and challenge the dominance of national parties like the Congress and the BJP. The concept of secularism in India is enshrined in the Constitution, particularly in the Preamble and Articles 25-28, which guarantee freedom of religion. However, the interpretation and implementation of secularism have been subjects of debate. The CPI(M) advocates for a secularism that is critical of all forms of religious fundamentalism and communalism, emphasizing the separation of religion from the state and the protection of the rights of all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is a Hindu nationalist organization founded in 1925. It promotes Hindu culture and values and has been a significant influence on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The CPI(M) views the RSS as a right-wing organization that promotes Hindu supremacy and threatens the secular fabric of India. The CPI(M) has consistently opposed the RSS and its political agenda, advocating for a more inclusive and secular society.

Latest Developments

In recent years, Indian politics has witnessed a shift towards coalition governments at the national level. The rise of regional parties and the decline of the Congress party have made it necessary for both the BJP and the Congress to form alliances to secure a majority in Parliament. The dynamics of these coalitions often involve compromises on policy and ideology, as parties with different agendas come together to share power. This has led to debates about the stability and effectiveness of coalition governments. The role of the Election Commission of India (ECI) has become increasingly important in ensuring free and fair elections. The ECI has been taking steps to address issues such as voter fraud, campaign finance irregularities, and the use of social media to spread misinformation. The ECI's efforts to promote voter awareness and participation have also been crucial in strengthening the democratic process. The independence and impartiality of the ECI are essential for maintaining public trust in the electoral system. The debate over secularism continues to be a central theme in Indian politics. The BJP's emphasis on cultural nationalism and the promotion of Hindu identity has raised concerns among some sections of society about the protection of minority rights and the preservation of India's secular character. The CPI(M) and other left-leaning parties have been vocal in their opposition to what they see as attempts to undermine secularism and promote religious polarization. The issue of secularism is likely to remain a contentious one in Indian politics for the foreseeable future. Looking ahead, the CPI(M) faces the challenge of adapting to the changing political landscape in India. The party's traditional base of support among workers and peasants has been eroding in recent years, and it needs to find new ways to connect with younger voters and address contemporary issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and social justice. The CPI(M)'s willingness to cooperate with other secular and democratic forces, including the Congress, could be crucial for its survival and relevance in Indian politics.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is CPI(M)'s willingness to cooperate with the Congress newsworthy recently?

The CPI(M)'s openness to cooperate with the Congress is noteworthy because it signals a potential shift in political alliances, particularly in the context of fighting against the BJP and RSS. This is especially relevant after the West Bengal Congress announced its decision to contest independently in the upcoming State Assembly election, highlighting the fluid nature of coalition politics.

2. What are the key facts to remember about the CPI(M) and Congress cooperation for the UPSC Prelims?

For the UPSC Prelims, remember that the CPI(M) is willing to cooperate with the Congress if the latter aligns with secular forces. Note that this statement was made after the West Bengal Congress decided to contest independently. Also, recall that the CPI(M) is already in alliance with the Congress in Bihar and Tamil Nadu.

3. What is the significance of 'secular values' in the context of CPI(M) and Congress cooperation?

In this context, 'secular values' refer to the commitment to a political system that does not discriminate based on religion and upholds the rights of all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs. The CPI(M) is emphasizing that any cooperation with the Congress must be based on a shared commitment to these principles, particularly in the fight against communal forces.

4. How does the CPI(M)'s current stance on cooperation with the Congress differ from its historical position?

Historically, the CPI(M) and the Congress have had a complex relationship, marked by periods of both cooperation and conflict. The current willingness to cooperate signals a pragmatic shift, likely driven by the need to counter the growing influence of the BJP. This represents a tactical adjustment in the face of evolving political realities.

5. What are the potential pros and cons of cooperation between CPI(M) and Congress, especially concerning the impact on common citizens?

Cooperation between the CPI(M) and Congress could lead to a stronger opposition against the BJP, potentially influencing policy debates and holding the government accountable. However, ideological differences could lead to policy compromises that may not fully address the needs of common citizens. Success depends on their ability to find common ground on key issues like social welfare and economic justice.

6. Considering the CPI(M)'s aim to defeat both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, what challenges does it face in West Bengal?

The CPI(M) faces the challenge of regaining lost ground in West Bengal, where it was once a dominant force. It needs to rebuild its organizational structure, win back the support of voters who have shifted to other parties, and effectively counter the narratives of both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress. The decision of the Congress to contest independently further complicates the situation.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Communist Party of India (Marxist): 1. It emerged from a split within the Communist Party of India in 1964. 2. It has historically held power in the states of West Bengal, Kerala, and Tripura. 3. It adheres to the ideology of Marxism-Leninism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. The CPI(M) was indeed formed in 1964 following a split in the CPI due to ideological differences. It has been a major political force in West Bengal, Kerala, and Tripura, where it has formed governments. The party's ideology is based on Marxism-Leninism, advocating for a socialist transformation of society.

2. In the context of Indian politics, the term 'secularism' implies which of the following? 1. Equal respect for all religions. 2. Separation of religion from the State. 3. State support for minority religious institutions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Indian secularism implies equal respect for all religions and the separation of religion from the State. Statement 3 is incorrect because while the State can provide support for educational institutions run by minorities, it cannot favor any particular religion.

3. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was founded in which year?

A.1920
B.1925
C.1930
D.1935

Show Answer

Answer: B

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. It is a Hindu nationalist organization that has played a significant role in Indian politics and society.