CPI(M) Vows to Continue Political Struggle Regardless of Electoral Outcome, Manik Sarkar Counters BJP’s 'Zero Seat' Claim

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 5, 2026

Former Tripura Chief Minister and veteran CPI(M) leader Manik Sarkar has asserted that the Left Front will continue its political and democratic struggle irrespective of its electoral performance, emphasizing that the party will never abandon the political battlefield even if its representation in the Tripura Legislative Assembly is reduced to zero.

Sarkar made the remarks while speaking to reporters after attending a voluntary blood donation camp organized on the occasion of the 33rd Foundation Day of the Tripura Autorickshaw Workers’ Union, affiliated with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), in Agartala. His comments came in response to a recent statement by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who reportedly claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would win all the remaining Assembly seats currently held by the Left Front in the next Assembly elections.

Rejecting the notion that political relevance is determined solely by legislative strength, Sarkar said that the Left Front’s commitment to public welfare, democratic values, constitutional rights, and the interests of ordinary people does not depend on the number of seats it holds in the Assembly. He maintained that even if political pressure or electoral circumstances reduce the party’s representation to zero, the Left Front will continue its movements and struggles among the people.

Addressing concerns over the democratic process, Sarkar stated that if elections are conducted in a free, fair, and democratic atmosphere where citizens can exercise their voting rights without fear or obstruction, the people themselves will decide the future political direction of the state. He stressed that democratic participation and the protection of constitutional rights remain essential for the healthy functioning of the political system.

The veteran CPI(M) leader further said that his party’s responsibility toward public issues extends beyond electoral victories and defeats. According to him, movements concerning employment, livelihood, social welfare, workers’ rights, and democratic freedoms will continue irrespective of the electoral outcome. He argued that political parties should remain connected with the people and address their day-to-day concerns rather than focusing exclusively on election results.

Speaking about the difficulties faced by autorickshaw workers, Sarkar highlighted the economic challenges confronting the sector. He noted that declining passenger numbers, unemployment, increasing financial pressures, and various operational difficulties have adversely affected the livelihoods of thousands of workers. Despite these hardships, he praised the workers for organizing a blood donation camp and demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility and humanitarian service.

Sarkar said that standing beside people in distress and contributing to social causes reflects the true spirit of workers’ organizations. He expressed appreciation for the blood donors who participated in the programme and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening social solidarity.

The exchange of statements between Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has added a new dimension to Tripura’s evolving political landscape. While the BJP remains confident about expanding its electoral dominance in the state, the CPI(M) is seeking to project itself as a movement-oriented political force whose relevance extends beyond legislative representation.

Reiterating his position, Sarkar said that regardless of the outcome of future Assembly elections, including the 2028 polls, the CPI(M) will continue to lead movements aimed at protecting democracy, safeguarding constitutional rights, and addressing issues affecting workers, farmers, youth, and the common people of Tripura.

The remarks are being viewed as an effort by the Left Front leadership to reassure its supporters that the party’s political struggle will continue regardless of electoral setbacks, while also underscoring the ideological contest that is expected to shape Tripura’s political discourse in the years ahead.

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