Left parties expand literature range at Durga Puja stalls alongside BJP

The cultural calendar of West Bengal is set to feature an unusual political contest as both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) install book stalls near the major Durga Puja pandals. The BJP’s 1,500 kiosks will concentrate on narratives that promote Hindutva, nationalist thought and the legacy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking his 25 years in public service.

In parallel, the CPI(M) is preparing a similar presence, but with a refreshed selection that includes not only classic Marxist‑Leninist texts but also popular works by Bengali writers. Party officials say the broadened catalogue is intended to engage younger readers and to present a more diverse cultural offering.

Both sides will also hand out pamphlets summarising governmental projects, infrastructure investments, welfare schemes and efforts toward gender safety. The co‑existence of these stalls is expected to turn the religious festivities into a platform for ideological outreach.