WHENEVER in crisis, capital's oldest trick has been to manufacture a shock and let the working class absorb its impact. The fuel prices did what they always do whenever Washington decides to bomb someone – they went up. On February 28, 2026, the United States' unprovoked attack on Iran dragged the Gulf into a war where the rest of the world is having to pay the price.

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement on July 20, 2026

ON July 16, the people of Chottakhola and its surrounding areas witnessed a unique spirit of resistance as hundreds marched carrying red flags. They also saw another authoritarian face of the BJP-led coalition government under Chief Minister Manik Saha. Local residents witnessed how the police, allegedly given a “free hand” by the chief minister, surrendered helplessly before ruling party miscreants and provided protection.

DEAFENING music, high-tempo beats, inflammatory lyrics, and crowds swaying to the rhythm are common sights at processions organised by Hindutva groups across the country. People, intoxicated by the arrogance of Hindu supremacy, frequently shout provocative slogans. As the tempo of the music rises, so does the fervor of the crowd; it appears as though the music has completely taken them over. The lyrics accompanying the music begin to dominate both heart and mind.

THERE are moments in history when time scampers. Many Indians who were in a dilemma over the lack of collective rage would now be relieved. With developments over the manner in which the executive, the legislature and eventually even the judiciary appeared to converge, it was almost a replay of the British colonial rule. The freedom struggle, the sacrifices and the democratic secular Constitution, all appeared to be under major strain.