People's Democracy

Buddhadeb Invites Trinamul Chief For Talks

The following is the text of the letter written by West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee to Trinamul Congress chief Mamata Banarjee inviting her for talks on Singur issue on August 25, 2008.

Earlier we have discussed the problems arising out of the small car manufacturing factory at Singur with representatives sent by you, following my appeal. We decided then at that meeting that there would be continued discussions towards a just and proper resolve of the impasse.

You are already aware that in view of Ratan Tata�s statement on the issue, different state governments have called for the project to be shifted to their respective states. You will surely realise from all this how important it is for the state to complete the project early. Surely as a responsible leader of the opposition of the state, you would desire that the project should be completed in this state.

In view of this, keeping the project completely unaffected, acting within the legal framework of the land, and safeguarding the interests of the landless families affected adversely by the land acquisition, I would like to have a direct discussion with you to find out a formula that will be acceptable to all.

I hope that in the interest of the quick implementation and completion of the project and to ensure that the reflection of our state�s image remains untarnished, you would withdraw your present movement and agree to sit for a discussion again.