There’s an organised campaign to accuse CPI(M) of indulging in soft Hindutva: Baby

The statement by CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby, addressing accusations of 'soft Hindutva' and confirming Pinarayi Vijayan's leadership for the LDF's poll campaign, offers a crucial lens into the evolving dynamics of Indian politics, particularly the challenges faced by traditional secular and Left parties. This development is not just about internal party matters but reflects broader ideological shifts and electoral strategies in a nation increasingly influenced by identity politics.

**Background Context and What Happened:**

Historically, the Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPI(M), has been a staunch proponent of secularism, class struggle, and anti-communalism, distinguishing itself sharply from right-wing and religiously oriented political forces. Its strongholds, primarily Kerala and West Bengal, have seen long periods of Left rule, often on the back of welfare policies and a clear ideological stance. However, with the ascendancy of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its Hindutva ideology at the national level since 2014, and its concerted efforts to expand into states like Kerala, the political landscape has undergone significant transformation. The accusation of 'soft Hindutva' against the CPI(M) suggests that even parties with historically opposite ideologies might be perceived as adapting or subtly appealing to the majority community's sentiments to counter the BJP's narrative and retain electoral relevance. This could manifest in various ways, such as increased participation in temple-related events, avoiding direct confrontation on certain religious issues, or adopting cultural symbols. M.A. Baby's assertion of an 'organised campaign' to level this charge indicates the CPI(M)'s awareness of the political damage such an accusation could inflict on its secular credentials and its attempt to counter this narrative proactively.

The confirmation of Pinarayi Vijayan leading the Left Democratic Front (LDF) campaign is significant. Vijayan, the current Chief Minister of Kerala, has consolidated power within the party and led the LDF to a historic consecutive victory in the 2021 Assembly elections, a rare feat in Kerala's political history. His leadership brings stability and a proven track record to the LDF's electoral efforts. The discussion around relaxing term limits for party leaders highlights internal party democracy and succession planning. In many political parties, long-serving leaders often face questions about creating space for new leadership. The CPI(M) Polit Bureau's deliberations on this suggest an internal debate about balancing experience with renewal, a common challenge for established political organizations.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

* **CPI(M) and LDF:** The primary subject, grappling with ideological challenges, electoral strategies, and internal party dynamics. Their response to the 'soft Hindutva' charge and the leadership choice of Pinarayi Vijayan are central.

* **BJP/Sangh Parivar:** The ideological rival whose rise has arguably necessitated these strategic adjustments by the Left. Their expansionist political agenda often puts pressure on regional and ideologically distinct parties.

* **Other Opposition Parties (e.g., Indian National Congress/UDF in Kerala):** These parties might also be making or benefiting from the 'soft Hindutva' accusations, as they compete for similar voter bases and seek to expose perceived ideological inconsistencies.

* **The Electorate (especially in Kerala):** The voters whose perceptions and preferences ultimately determine the success or failure of these political strategies.

**Significance for India and Historical Context:**

This development holds immense significance for India's political fabric. It underscores the pervasive influence of identity politics, particularly religious identity, even in states where class-based politics traditionally held sway. For a party like CPI(M), whose foundational ideology is rooted in Marxism and scientific socialism, being accused of 'soft Hindutva' is a direct challenge to its core identity and historical narrative of uncompromising secularism. This mirrors a broader trend across India where various political parties, including the Indian National Congress, have faced similar allegations or have been observed making subtle overtures to religious communities, often termed 'minority appeasement' or 'soft Hindutva', depending on the context. This ideological convergence or adaptation raises questions about the future of distinct ideological politics in India and the potential for a more homogenous political discourse dominated by cultural nationalism. Historically, the Left has been a bulwark against communal forces, playing a crucial role in upholding India's secular constitutional ethos. The current situation highlights the immense pressure they are under to adapt without alienating their core base or compromising their ideological integrity.

**Future Implications:**

The CPI(M)'s response to these accusations and its electoral strategy under Pinarayi Vijayan's leadership will be keenly watched. If the 'soft Hindutva' allegations gain traction, it could erode the party's secular credentials and alienate its traditional minority and intellectual voter base. Conversely, if the strategy helps counter the BJP's growth while retaining its core support, it might set a precedent for other secular parties. The debate over term limits also has long-term implications for party democracy and leadership transition, which are critical for the vitality of any political organization. This internal churn reflects the broader challenge for Indian political parties to remain relevant and responsive in a rapidly changing political environment.

**Related Constitutional Articles, Acts, or Policies:**

This issue directly relates to the **Preamble of the Indian Constitution**, which declares India a 'Secular' republic. The concept of secularism, though debated in its application, is a fundamental feature of the Constitution. **Articles 25-28** guarantee the freedom of religion, while **Articles 14, 15, and 16** ensure equality and non-discrimination on grounds of religion, among others. Political parties are expected to uphold these constitutional values. The **Representation of the People Act, 1951**, particularly sections related to electoral conduct and corrupt practices (e.g., Section 123), prohibits appeals to voters on the grounds of religion. While 'soft Hindutva' is a political accusation rather than a direct violation of law, it touches upon the spirit of these electoral provisions and the constitutional mandate for a secular state. The **Model Code of Conduct** issued by the Election Commission of India also lays down guidelines against communal appeals during elections.