The Hindu : National : Pakistan verdict hailed

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Thursday, Feb 21, 2008
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Pakistan verdict hailed

Special Correspondent

A rejection of authoritarian military rule: CPI(M)

Reaffirmation of people’s faith in democracy: CPI(M)
Congress lauds peaceful election process

NEW DELHI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday welcomed the election verdict in Pakistan and congratulated the people on rejecting authoritarianism and ending a decade of dictatorial politics.

The Congress welcomed the peaceful elections and looked forward to restoration of a democratic government.

Significant outcome

A statement by the CPI(M) Polit Bureau said: “The verdict was a rejection of authoritarian military rule” and a “reaffirmation” of the people’s faith in parliamentary democracy.

The verdict against religion-based parties and sectarian politics was also a significant outcome.

The CPI(M) expressed the hope that the elections would lead to the “formation of a coalition government based on the popular mandate that would augur well for a transition to a full-fledged democratic system.”

Positive impact

The Polit Bureau felt the election would also have a positive impact on the region as a whole and provide an “appropriate setting” for the continuation of the India-Pakistan dialogue and steps to improve relations.

Congress spokesperson Jayanti Natarajan appreciated the peaceful election process and said her party “would welcome the restoration of a democratic government.”

BJP’s dismay

BJP president Rajnath Singh voiced similar views, but added that the BJP had noted “with dismay” the “very limited role of the minorities, especially the Hindus, in these elections.” He hoped that the new rulers in Pakistan would take proper care of the minorities.

Mr. Singh hoped that the democratic forces in Pakistan would give it a truly representative government with full people’s participation.

He said the BJP would expect the new rulers of Pakistan “to work for a negotiated and peaceful settlement of all issues between India and Pakistan and to make constructive contribution to regional peace and cooperation.”

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