Of Perception and Exit Polls in Bengal
The Left in West Bengal is leveraging perception politics, using incidents like the R.G. Kar rape-murder case to build a narrative against the TMC, but this approach risks backfiring and aiding the BJP. The Left's strategy echoes AAP's trajectory, which initially gained momentum on anti-corruption sentiment but ultimately failed to deliver.
The Left in West Bengal is using perception politics to shape the ongoing elections, leveraging incidents like the R.G. Kar rape-murder case in August 2024 to build a narrative against the TMC. By framing the incident as a broader crisis in women's safety, the Left aimed to tap into growing disillusionment with the TMC's 15-year rule. This approach resonated with the public mood and sharpened the anti-incumbency narrative, positioning the Left as defenders of civic rights. However, this strategy risks backfiring, echoing AAP's trajectory, which initially gained momentum on anti-corruption sentiment but ultimately failed to deliver. The BJP may benefit from the Left's efforts, gaining narrative momentum ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. If exit polls predicting a BJP victory or significant gains prove accurate, much of the onus will rest with the Left.
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