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French and Bengalis, despite differences, share a common stance against far-right ideologies, opines Madhuri, exclusively for Different Truths.
I always felt that the French and Bengalis had a lot in common. They are intelligent, intellectual, argumentative, unhurried, and idealistic, with strong family values. Most of them, being intelligent, are liberal, but there is also a strong conservative element in both societies.
The recent elections in France and Bengal offer a fascinating comparative study of two regions rejecting far-right politics. Despite their geographical and cultural differences, France and Bengal have demonstrated a similarity in their opposition to far-right ideologies, represented in both countries by Marine Le Pen in France and Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
In France, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, has long advocated for stringent immigration policies and nationalism. Despite her efforts to rebrand the party, the French electorate has consistently chosen moderate candidates over her. This was evident in the 2022 presidential elections, where incumbent President Emmanuel Macron successfully fended off Le Pen’s challenge, symbolizing the French rejection of xenophobia and divisive politics.
In Bengal, the 2021 legislative assembly elections saw the BJP attempt to unseat the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee. The BJP’s nationalist rhetoric and polarizing policies were firmly rejected by the Bengali electorate, which reaffirmed their support for the TMC. Mamata Banerjee’s victory was seen as a blow to Modi’s political ambitions in the region and a reinforcement of Bengal’s commitment to pluralism and social harmony.
The rejection of the far right in both France and Bengal underscores a significant political phenomenon. Both electorates displayed a mature political consciousness that values democratic principles and societal cohesion over divisive politics. In France, the choice reaffirmed European ideals, while in Bengal, voters stood by the principles of secularism and cultural identity.
These electoral outcomes highlight the importance of regional identity and cultural values in shaping political decisions. In France, European unity and democratic values played a crucial role, while in Bengal, cultural heritage and social justice influenced voters’ preferences.
In conclusion, the political landscapes of France and Bengal, despite their differences, reveal a common thread in the rejection of far-right politics. The French and the Bengalis, in their respective contexts, have shown that the spirit of democracy and pluralism can triumph over the politics of fear and exclusion.
Picture design Anumita Roy
