Date:24/08/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/08/24/stories/2006082403152100.htm

Business

`SEZs leading to displacement of farmers'

Staff Reporter

The challenges of globalisation continue to be grave

KOCHI: The Government policy of forming special economic zones (SEZs) is leading to large-scale displacement of farmers and forest dwellers, the former MP Surendra Mohan said on Tuesday.

Mr. Mohan, a leader of the Socialist Front, a new forum of socialists in various parts of the country, was speaking to mediapersons here.

The challenges of globalisation continued to be grave. Working people were facing growing unemployment, increasing poverty and rising inflation. Multi-national companies and Indian capitalists were doubling their wealth every year. Communal forces were attempting to exploit the misery of the people to create hatred and violence.

The move to unite socialists was gaining strength against this backdrop, he said. The efforts were aimed at uniting those socialists who upheld secularism, democracy and social justice. Socialists divided into various parties and groups had realised that a committed political force was needed to meet the challenges faced by society.

A three-day camp of nearly 150 socialists held in Ranchi recently resolved to intensify efforts for the unity of all socialists. A national meet was being planned.

Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS) leader Thampan Thomas, who was present, said the HMS would support the move to unite socialists.