 "Verdict completely unexpected: Left")
The CPI-M led Left Front (LF), which is headed for its worst-ever Lok Sabha election defeat in West Bengal, Friday described the verdict as "unexpected" but refused to give reasons for the debacle.
Addressing media persons, a visibly rattled Left Front chairman Biman Bose refused to comment about the performance which saw the coalition's vote share dip to 29.50 % from 43.30 % in 2009.
"The verdict is completely unexpected. About the performance, we can make a comment only after analysing the various aspects. We have not discussed about it, so I cannot comment," said Bose.
The front which bagged 15 seats in 2009 saw only two of its nominees - Badaruddoza Khan from Murshidabad and Mohammad Salim from Raiganj - winning. Both the seats were previously held by the Congress.
Bose also refused to blame any individual for the debacle.
"You can hold an individual responsible, but Left parties do not function like that. For Left parties, individuals do not matter," said Bose who lost his cool a few times after being prodded by the media about the reasons behind the embarrassing performance.
"I will not comment unless we discuss the matter, you may write what you want to," said a visibly peeved Bose who also accused the Election Commission (EC) of failing to create a sense of security among the voters.
"Since the third phase of polls in the state, the EC failed to create a sense of security among the voters who were up against the intimidating and terror tactics of the Trinamool Congress," added Bose.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app