We need Mamata in fight against BJP, says CPI(M) leader

TMC says it is too early to comment on the leader’s remarks

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

At a time when there is a tussle between the State and Central Committees of the CPI(M) over joining forces with the Congress, Central Committee member Gautam Deb has hinted that the party may join forces with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to keep the BJP out of power in Bengal.

TMC secretary general Partha Chatterjee, however, brushed aside Mr. Deb’s remarks.

“If Mamata Banerjee is honest about fighting the BJP’s communal politics, then she can talk to us and we can discuss the issue. We want to ensure that the BJP does not get a single seat in Bengal,” Mr. Deb told

The Hindu on Sunday.

The CPI(M) wanted to “unify all the secular democratic forces against the BJP” and the TMC was “necessary” for the purpose. “Currently the main danger to the country and Bengal is the BJP. If such a right wing party gains influence in the State, there will be no democracy and minority rights. We need Mamata Banerjee in our fight [against the BJP],” he said.

However, CPI(M) insiders told The Hindu that Mr. Deb’s remarks had not gone down well with a large number of State Committee members. “Several State Committee members have opposed the comments,” said a State Committee member.

The TMC leadership, however, said it was “too early” to comment on Mr. Deb’s remarks. “We don’t see any reason to take his [Mr. Deb’s] remarks seriously. I don’t have any reaction,” party Secretary General Partha Chatterjee said.