CPI(M) • Communist Party of India (Marxist)

About

The Communist Party of India (Marxist), commonly known as CPI(M) or CPM, is an Indian communist political party formed in 1964 following a split within the Communist Party of India. The party emerged from differences within the communist movement over political strategy and the application of Marxist principles to Indian conditions. It has historically organised workers, peasants, agricultural labourers, and other sections of society through political campaigns, trade unions, and mass organisations. CPI(M) has participated in parliamentary and state-level politics, particularly in states such as Kerala, West Bengal, and Tripura, where it has played significant roles in government and opposition. Its political programme emphasizes economic equality, labour rights, land reform, public welfare, secularism, and opposition to social and economic exploitation.

Ideology

CPI(M) is guided by Marxism-Leninism and identifies socialism and communism as its long-term objectives. Its political philosophy emphasizes working-class leadership, collective organisation of workers and peasants, redistribution of economic power, and the reduction of class exploitation. The party advocates secularism, democratic rights, land reform, labour protections, and public provision of essential services. It also emphasises anti-imperialism and international solidarity among working people. Political analysts generally classify CPI(M) as a far-left communist party, reflecting its Marxist–Leninist ideology and its stated goal of establishing a socialist society.