Agartala: March 30: At a recent gathering of intellectuals organized by Muktadhara, Biplab Kumar Deb, the Lok Sabha candidate from West Tripura, launched a pointed critique of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM. His remarks centered on the treatment of intellectuals during the party’s long reign in the state.
Deb began by acknowledging the intelligence of the communist cadres, particularly those in West Bengal and Kerala (referred to as “A category” communists). However, he expressed dismay at their lack of understanding regarding intellectuals and their role in society. “In the past,” Deb quipped, “one could not be considered an intellectual without being a communist. But the communists never truly grasped who intellectuals were or how to respect them.”
The Lok Sabha candidate contrasted this with the present government’s approach. “After Narendra Modi assumed power,” Deb asserted, “he demonstrated how to genuinely respect intellectuals. Today, no one from Tripura needs to navigate bureaucratic hurdles to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award.” He highlighted that several individuals from tribal communities in Tripura have been honored with the Padma Shri, a stark departure from the communist era.
Deb also drew attention to the case of Thanga Darlong, a notable figure in Tripura. “During their 25-year rule,” he stated, “the CPM failed to recognize Thanga Darlong’s contributions. It was the BJP government that finally acknowledged his achievements and awarded him the Padma Shri.”
The Lok Sabha candidate concluded by emphasizing that the communists’ intelligence did not save them from eventual decline. “While they secured government jobs for their cadres,” Deb remarked, “their inability to appreciate intellectuals ultimately led to their downfall.”
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Deb’s critique sheds light on the delicate balance between ideology and recognition in the realm of intellectual achievements.
