March 17, 2005
Press Statement
The
Polit Bureau of the CPI(M), now in session at New Delhi, has issued the
following statement:
Extend Full Support For Restoration Of Democracy In Nepal
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.
US Pressure Unacceptable
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 discussions 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.
