May 13, 2004
Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
Historic Victory in 14th Lok Sabha Elections
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) warmly congratulates the people of India for inflicting a decisive defeat on the BJP and its allies. The six-year rule of the Vajpayee-led government has come to an end. The verdict is a rejection of the naked communalism of the BJP regime, the pro-rich economic policies which were glorified by the "India Shining" campaign and the pro-imperialist foreign policy.
The 14th Lok Sabha elections is a historic success for the CPI(M) and the Left parties and they have won the highest number of seats ever in Parliament elections since independence. This is a recognition of the firm and consistent role played by the CPI(M) and the Left in defending secularism, anti-imperialism and opposing the harmful economic polices. The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) conveys its greetings to the people of West Bengal, Kerala and Tripura and the constituencies which have elected the CPI(M) and the Left candidates.
All the major secular opposition parties have contributed to the defeat of the BJP and its allies. The people of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and many other states have routed the BJP and its allies. Even in Gujarat, the BJP has faced major setbacks.
It is incumbent upon all the secular parties who have registered this important victory to come together to provide a stable alternative government. The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) will work towards ensuring this goal in a manner which meets the people’s wishes.