Resounding verdict in West Bengal

The Front's success is largely attributable to its pro-people stance reflected amply in its land reform and village panchayat scheme, that have benefited the vast majority of rural people. Above all, the clean and well-organised image of the Front has helped it retain its grip on power. The people of West Bengal have clearly rejected the BJP, while the Congress could not match the Front's broad-based development plans for the state.

The state polls were held on five days under the strict supervision of the Indian Election Commission. The point to be noted here is that the state apparatus remained absolutely neutral and every party had to go by the rules. The Election Commission's assertive and efficient handling of the whole electoral process left no room for any adverse criticism. Even the avowed critics of the Front acknowledged that the elections were held very smoothly.

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The lessons from the West Bengal elections are twofold. First, a ruling party or alliance can overcome anti-incumbency factor if it tries to fulfill its elections pledges with an element of consistency. Second, a strong election commission coupled with a neutral administration can keep the disruptive forces at bay.

The Front's victory has removed all doubts and speculations regarding its election strategy and tactics. It could also be a stabilising factor for the government of Manmohan Singh, which is firmly committed to secular principles of governance that the Left Front is supportive of.