People's Democracy

CPI(M) Leaders Thank Arafat

Following is the letter sent to Yasir Arafat, President of the State of Palestine, by Harkishan Singh Surjeet, general secretary of the CPI(M) on May 21 thanking him for his congratulatory message. Sitaram Yechury, Polit Bureau member of the CPI(M) had also sent a separate letter thanking Arafat for his message.

Dear Mr Arafat,

This is to acknowledge and express thanks for your message congratulating the Communist Party of India (Marxist) for its unprecedented success in the just concluded elections to the lower house of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha).

The CPI(M) had entered these elections with a three-fold objective: defeat the communal forces; install an alternative secular government at the centre; and increase the representation of the CPI(M) and the Left in the parliament. With a degree of satisfaction, we can claim to have achieved these objectives. The CPI(M) has increased its strength from 33 seats in the last elections to 44 seats this time. The Left parties together have a representation of 60.

We have keenly been following the developments in West Asia. We note with deep concern the intensified and savage attacks on the Palestinian people and their leadership by the ruthless Israeli administration under Ariel Sharon. Sharon has been so emboldened after the US occupation of Iraq that he brazenly proclaims that the Palestinian leadership, including its popular leader, Yasser Arafat are his targets.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has been in the forefront of the peace-loving and anti-imperialist forces in India championing the cause of the Palestinian people for their homeland and opposing the oppressive tactics pursued by the brutal Israeli administration to suppress their just struggle.

The NDA government which was ousted from power was led by a communal party which saw Israel as its natural ally. With the change of government at the Centre, we are optimistic that there will be a change in priorities and perception.

Nevertheless, on behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and millions of its followers, may I take this opportunity to assure you and through you the Palestinian people, of our wholehearted support and solidarity in their just struggle for a homeland.