People's Democracy

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M), now in session, issued the following statement on March 17, 2005.

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expressed its deep concern at the refusal of the King of Nepal to heed international public opinion and undo the steps taken to suppress democracy in Nepal. The arrest and imprisonment of political leaders and activists are continuing. Civil liberties remain suspended and censorship of the media imposed.

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) appreciated the stand taken by the government of India calling for the restoration of parliamentary democracy in Nepal. The government took the correct step to stop military supplies to Nepal in conformity with this stand.

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) is of the firm opinion that there should be no resumption of military supplies which will only strengthen the King’s autocratic regime. The Indian government should continue all efforts to see that restoration of democracy is accomplished as soon as possible.

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) extends its full support to all the political parties and democratic forces who are struggling for an end to the autocratic regime and restoration of democracy.

The US secretary of state, Condoleezza Rice, during her visit to Delhi, has warned India not to go ahead with the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project. The United States has no business to interfere in a decision between three sovereign countries to cooperate on building a gas pipeline. It is good the Indian foreign minister stated India's intention to continue discussion with Iran on the project.

The Bush administration has targeted Iran and is adopting the familiar pattern of raising false charges to isolate a country which does not bow to its dictates. Both the Indian and Pakistan governments would do well to rebuff such arrogant interference and proceed with the project speedily which will be of benefit to all three countries concerned.