CPI(M) introduces AI anchor for Lok Sabha elections campaign in Bengal, BJP and TMC harp on its historical objection to mechanisation

The other parties have mocked the CPI(M) over the move since it has a history of opposing mechanisation and computerisation in West Bengal. During the 1960-1990 period, the CPI(M) had strong reservations against automation in several fields. In West Bengal, the party organised a strong movement against automation in banks and the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).

“That was a wrong narrative. We are not against mechanisation. Technology always increases productivity, but we are saying that surplus productivity should be used properly in society,” said the CPIM leader.

He also added, “At the beginning of the nineteenth century, when Luddites destroyed power looms and other machines in England, Karl Marx opposed that. So, it is not correct that Marxists are against automation.”

Srijan Bhattacharya, youth leader of CPI(M) and candidate in Jadavpur Lok Sabha constituency, said, “CPI(M) was never against the implementation of computers. But the way it was supposed to be implemented could have led to mass joblessness, which CPI(M) did not want.”

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Chandrima Bhattacharya said, “CPI(M) always took the wrong decision at the wrong time. It is also that. Now, they are afraid of another defeat and trying to get help from AI.”

BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya said, “CPI(M) was the party for sarbahara, landless farmers, and workers of unorganised sectors. But now CPI(M) is not seen in both places. Their intelligence has ended, and now they are using artificial intelligence.”

Lok Sabha elections 2024 in West Bengal will be held in all seven phases from April 19 to June 1 to elect 42 members, with the results declared on June 4 as part of the nationwide counting.