What is CPI(M)?

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI (M) is a communist political party in India. The party was formed from a division at the Seventh Congress of the Communist Party of India (CPI), founded in 1920, held in Calcutta from October 31 to November 7 in 1964.

 

CPI (M) is one of the national parties and in terms of membership and electoral seats, it is the largest communist party in the country. As of 2023, the political outfit is a part of ruling alliances in three states — Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala, Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, and Secular Progressive Alliance in Tamil Nadu.

The Central Committee is the highest decision-making body of CPI (M).

 

CPI (M) has representation in the legislative assemblies in the states of Kerala, Tripura, Bihar, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Assam. CPI (M) was formed from a split in the Communist Party of India (CPI) on November 7, 1964.

 

The communist party has been a lynchpin for people's movements on issues of farmers, tribals, Dalits, workers and minorities.

 

Aim

 

"The CPI (M)'s aim is communism and socialism through the establishment of the state dictatorship of the proletariat. In all its activities, the party is guided by the philosophy and principles of Marxism-Leninism which shows to the toiling masses the correct way to the ending of exploitation of man by man, their complete emancipation. The party keeps high the banner of proletarian internationalism", according to the party's official website.

 

CPI (M) flag

 

The flag of CPI (M) is seen as a red flag and there is a crossed hammer in the centre and a sickle in white.