People's Democracy

ON SEZs

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) issued the following statements on July 7, 2007.

THE Standing Committee of parliament has submitted its report on the Special Economic Zones. It has made various recommendations and suggested amendments to the SEZ Act and rules. In view of the widespread objections and apprehensions about the existing Act and rules, it is incumbent upon the government to ensure a full discussion on the report of the Standing Committee in the forthcoming session of parliament. The issues concern protecting the interests of the farmers, food security, changing the Land Acquisition Act, setting a proper ceiling on land allotted for different categories of SEZs, ending unjustifiable tax sops and protecting interests of labour within SEZs. The discussions in parliament can be the basis for bringing about the necessary changes in the Act and rules.