The CPI(M) state unit today rejected MDMK leader Vaiko’s request to Left parties to call off the agitation against U S President Barack Obama during his coming India visit, saying it was not against him, but only opposed to US ‘thrusting’ globalisation on the country.
“Two hundred businessmen from U.S. are accompanying Obama and their main agenda is to allow FDI in retail trade. This is what we oppose,” party's State secretary G Ramakrishnan said, while addressing a press meet in Madurai.
He said the CPI(M) MPs would however not boycott the US President’s address in Parliament.
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He said in the interest of the nation Vaiko should participate in the demonstrations organised by the CPI(M). He also said his party has a different view on Obama’s visit and it would not affect ties between CPI(M) and MDMK.
Criticising Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for remaining silent on union telecom minister A Raja, embroiled in the 2G spectrum scam, he said Mr. Singh after having come back to the country now, should take action against the minister after going through the Supreme Court’s latest observations on the scandal.
He said Mr. Raja should either resign in view of the Supreme Court’s observation or be removed by the Prime Minister. The CAG report also had clearly stated the exchequer had lost Rs 1.40 lakh crore due to the sale of 2G spectrum licence, he said.
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Stating that the CPI(M) was fighting for issues affecting people together with others, he said electoral alliance would be decided before the elections.
The CPI(M) would organise an agitation against Obama’s visit on November 8, he said.