‘Threats to democracy’: CPI criticises BJP-RSS at Salem conference

At its Salem conference, CPI leaders D. Raja and R. Mutharasan accused BJP-RSS of eroding democracy and vowed to resist “fascist tendencies,” while rejecting AIADMK’s criticism and alliance suggestions

Chennai: The Communist Party of India (CPI) concluded its “Velga Jananayakam Ezhucci” (Long Live Democracy) conference in Salem on Monday, where senior leaders, including General Secretary D Raja and State Secretary R Mutharasan, strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for what they called ongoing threats to India’s democratic fabric.

The event, attended by leaders of various political parties, including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, drew thousands of CPI workers and supporters from across the state.

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Raja warns of “erosion of democracy”

Addressing the gathering, D Raja said democracy in India was under severe strain. He alleged that the right to vote — the foundation of democratic governance — was being eroded, citing recent voter list manipulation controversies in Bihar.

Raja cautioned that Tamil Nadu and Kerala could face similar threats if democratic forces failed to remain vigilant. He accused the BJP and RSS of pursuing a communal and fascist agenda, aimed at transforming India into a religious state and undermining the Constitution drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

“Any attempt to alter the Constitution must be resisted at all costs,” he declared, stressing that the nation had to be saved from the “clutches of the BJP.”

CPI vows to resist “fascist tendencies”

CPI State Secretary R Mutharasan, addressing the concluding public meeting, echoed these concerns and reiterated the party’s determination to fight fascist politics.

He reminded the audience of CPI’s historic role, noting that the party had faced three bans, endured 12 years underground, and made sacrifices during the freedom struggle and beyond.

Mutharasan also criticised AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami for remarks belittling the CPI, saying he had no political or moral standing to question the party’s relevance. He rejected suggestions that CPI might join the AIADMK-led alliance, insisting the party was not for political trade-offs.

“The CPI cannot be bought or sold. We are an independent party, committed to protecting people’s rights and defeating fascist politics,” Mutharasan said.