In a powerful emotional and political statement, CPI(M) State Secretary Mohammad Salim recalled the historic funeral procession of the late former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. Speaking at an event on March 19, 2026, Salim claimed that while the city of Kolkata was mourning its beloved leader, the BJP and RSS were nowhere to be found among the sea of people.

Salim highlighted the crucial role played by DYFI leaders Meenakshi Mukherjee and Kalatan Dasgupta during the funeral. “When the crowd became uncontrollable at Palm Avenue, it wasn’t the police but leaders like Meenakshi and Kalatan who stood like a wall to protect Buddhadeb Da’s vehicle,” Salim remarked. He emphasized that the youth wings of the Left ensured the procession moved smoothly amidst the overwhelming emotional outburst of the public.

By contrasting the active presence of Left volunteers with the alleged absence of the RSS and BJP, Salim aimed to reinforce the idea that the Left remains the true grassroots force in Bengal. Political analysts view this as an attempt to mobilize the cadre by invoking the legacy of Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, especially ahead of the upcoming political battles. Salim’s words served as a reminder that for the Left, the struggle is continuous and deeply rooted in the emotions of the common man.