CPI(M) conference in Shimla: A voice against growing inequality and government policies
The Himachal Pradesh state committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) kick-started its three-day conference at Shimla’s iconic Kali Bari Hall. Before the official proceedings, a massive rally marched from Panchayat Bhavan to Chaura Maidan, drawing significant attention. At Ambedkar Chowk, prominent leaders such as Comrade Subhashini Ali, T. Sen, A. Vijayaraghavan, Rakesh Singha, Kushal Bhardwaj, and Vijendra Mehra addressed the crowd, emphasizing the challenges faced by common citizens. The event also saw the presence of senior leaders like Dr. Omkar Shad, Dr. Vikram Singh, Dr. Kashmir Thakur, and others, with Dr. Vijay Kaushal leading as the chairperson of the session.
A Decade of Growing Disparity
During the conference, speakers strongly criticized the policies of the BJP-led central government, accusing it of creating “two Indias”—one for the affluent elite and another for the struggling masses. They argued that the past decade has seen a sharp rise in inequality, with benefits flowing to the wealthy while the poor continue to face exploitation. They lamented the erosion of workers’ rights through the replacement of long-standing labor laws with pro-corporate labor codes and highlighted how subsidies for farmers and the working class have been systematically withdrawn.
Unemployment, deepening agrarian distress, and increasing farmer suicides were termed as direct consequences of these policies. The speakers also brought attention to the exploitation of marginalized communities, including Dalits, Adivasis, women, and minorities, asserting that the government’s actions have disproportionately burdened these groups.
Corporate Interests Over Public Welfare
The CPI(M) accused the BJP of furthering a corporate-communal alliance to consolidate power, undermining constitutional values in the process. They expressed concern over the growing divide between the rich and the poor, citing the rise in the number of billionaires even as India’s position in the Global Hunger Index and Human Development Index continues to worsen.
Criticism of Congress-Led State Government
Turning to the state government, the speakers did not hold back their criticism of Congress, accusing it of mirroring the BJP’s anti-people policies. They raised concerns over the installation of smart meters, claiming they would burden citizens financially. The delay in declaring employment exam results, which has left many youths in limbo, was also condemned.
The CPI(M) further denounced recent communal disturbances in Shimla, blaming BJP-affiliated organizations for inciting tensions. They also accused Congress leaders of being complicit, exposing what they called the true face of both parties. The speakers called on the public to recognize CPI(M) as a genuine alternative that prioritizes the needs of ordinary citizens over corporate interests.
As the conference progresses, the CPI(M) aims to galvanize support for its vision of a more equitable and inclusive India.
