People's Democracy

ON MULLAPERIYAR ISSUE

Maintain Peace and Harmony

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), whiles meeting in New Delhi, issued the following statement on December 13, 2011.

THE Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expresses its deep concern about incidents that have taken place on both sides of the border between Kerala and Tamilnadu. Some attacks on persons belonging to the other state have taken place.  There are reports of houses being attacked in the bordering areas. Shops have been attacked in some cities in Tamilnadu.

All these are unfortunate given the longstanding harmonious and good  relations between the peoples of the two states. 

The chauvinist forces who are seeking to whip up tensions on both sides of the border should be rebuffed. The Polit Bureau appeals to the people of both states not to fall prey to provocations and maintain their traditional friendship and good neighbourliness. 

The Mullaperiyar dam issue which is the cause for the differences between the two states has to be settled keeping in mind both aspects --- the safety of the dam and the provision of water to Tamilnadu. 

The Polit Bureau stresses the necessity for the central government to intervene and see that steps are taken to ensure the safety of the dam. The prime minister himself should take the initiative with both state governments for this. This is required pending the final decision by the Supreme Court.