Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
The disruption of the shooting of the film Water at Varanasi is yet another despicable example of the intolerant tactics of the BJP and the RSS. Subsequent to the vandalism indulged in by the RSS men, it has become clear that the BJP-led state government is fully behind this violent protest. The Chief Minister has admitted that the film has been stopped because the RSS demanded it. The BJP national vice-president has also justified the protest against the film even though the central government had accorded permission for the venture.
The RSS has arrogated to itself the role of arbiter in all matters including culture and the arts. This will not be acceptable to any one but those who adhere to the RSS brand of communalism.
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) strongly condemns the inaction of the administration in Varanasi which allowed the vandalism to go unchecked. The Vajpayee government has the responsibility to ensure that the film is produced as per the permission granted. The CPI(M) calls upon all sections of the people to strongly protest against the fascistic vandalism and demand that the fundamental rights of all citizens are protected.