. It was founded in 1964 and believes in Marxism and Leninism. . It supports socialism, secularism and democracy and opposes imperialism and communalism. . It accepts democratic elections as a useful and helpful means for securing the objective of socio-economic justice in India. . Enjoys strong support in West Bengal, Kerala and Tripura, especially among the poor factory workers, farmers, agricultural labourers and intelligentsia. . Always critical of the new economic policies that allow free flow of foreign capital and goods into the country. . It had been in power in West Bengal without a break for 30 years and currently supports the UPA government from outside, without joining the government.