The unprecedented exodus of elected representatives from the Trinamool Congress in the aftermath of West Bengal’s Assembly elections raises serious questions about the health of India’s democracy. The speed with which MPs and MLAs have abandoned their political commitments reflects not merely a party crisis but the demoralisation of democratic representatives in the face of immense political pressure, inducements, and the overwhelming influence exercised by the ruling establishment at the Centre.

More disturbing is the willingness of many political actors to ignore the growing danger of communal politics for short-term political survival. The expanding influence of the BJP, backed by the power of government agencies, financial resources, and political patronage, is reshaping the democratic landscape in a manner that undermines genuine opposition politics. Democracy cannot thrive when money power and state influence become decisive factors in determining political loyalties and public mandates.

Tayeedul Islam
National Secretary
Social Democratic Party of India