Press Statement
The Left parties, the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India, Forward Bloc and RSP, have issued the following statement:
12 October Protest Day:
Oppose US War, Curb Terrorism through Lawful Means
The armed forces of the United States have begun their military attack on Afghanistan. Various cities have been bombarded by American and British warplanes and ships. More attacks are in the offing.
The Left parties have, from the outset, stated that those responsible for the terrorist attacks in United States on September 11 should be brought to justice, proceeding through the United Nations and on the basis of international law.
By launching a full-scale war against Afghanistan, the main sufferers will be the people of that country. The missiles and bombs rained on Afghanistan will kill thousands of innocent people.
All democratic and peace-loving people in South Asia are deeply concerned about the casualties of war and the consequences for the region.
The Left parties strongly reiterate their demand that the BJP-led government, in no way, participate in this American-sponsored war. Such a step would have dangerous consequences for our region and for the national sovereignty of our countries.
The Left parties call for a joint campaign in protest against this unilateral war launched by America and its NATO allies. The Left parties call upon all their units to mobilise the people to hold protest demonstrations and meetings on 12 October all over the country to demand a halt to the war and to wage the struggle against terrorism in accordance with international laws.
Harkishan Singh Surjeet, General Secretary, CPI(M)
A.B. Bardhan, General Secretary, CPI
Debabrata Biswas, General Secretary, Forward Bloc
K. Pankajakshan, General Secretary, RSP