The political landscape of West Bengal is witnessing a major tremor as the alliance between the CPI(M) and the Indian Secular Front (ISF) hits a rocky patch. The primary bone of contention is ISF’s decision to field leaders who recently defected from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), most notably the inclusion of controversial figures like Arabul Islam and Mofidul Islam.

CPM State Secretary Mohammed Salim has signaled a potential break-up of the alliance, stating that the party cannot compromise on its core ideology. The grassroots workers of the Left are particularly enraged by the nomination of Mofidul Islam in the Deganga assembly constituency. Mofidul, a former TMC leader, is seen by CPM supporters as an oppressor who targeted Left workers during his tenure with the ruling party.

“We cannot stand alongside those who have the blood of our workers on their hands,” a senior CPM leader remarked, reflecting the growing sentiment within Alimuddin Street. The CPM high command believes that aligning with TMC turncoats will damage the party’s credibility and confuse voters who seek an authentic alternative to the current regime.

On the other hand, the ISF leadership maintains that their candidate selection is based on ‘winnability’ and regional influence. However, Salim’s blunt warning has put the ISF in a tight spot. If the ISF refuses to reconsider its candidates, the Left Front is prepared to field its own candidates in those seats, effectively ending the alliance.

As the election fever grips Bengal, the ‘Arabul factor’ has become a litmus test for the durability of the third front. Whether they find a middle ground or part ways remains to be seen, but the current friction has certainly handed a strategic advantage to the TMC.