Attacks on Left book stalls mark a turbulent Durga Puja for CPI(M)

This Durga Puja has been a turbulent time for the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) in West Bengal. Alleged attacks on book stalls belonging to the Left have marred the festivities, raising concerns over democratic space. The CPI(M) has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters of targeting their stalls and has vowed to resist any further attacks.

BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya, however, has denied that his party directed any such action. Instead, he urged people to report those responsible to the police. The most recent incident occurred on Friday night, when masked men allegedly vandalized several CPI(M) book stalls along GT Road in Bardhaman town. Despite the CPI(M) having emailed the police in advance, requesting security, the vandalism took place.

The CPI(M) has reported similar incidents happening at various locations across the state. State secretary Mohammad Salim confirmed that the attacks were taking place at several locations. Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh also criticized the alleged attacks, stating that they are being obstructed and the democratic space is being destroyed by the BJP. A senior CPI(M) leader noted that the party's book stalls had faced attacks during the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regime as well, but not on such a large scale.