Date:23/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/23/stories/2008052360081400.htm

National

Basu writes to Surjeet

Special Correspondent

Kolkata: Veteran Marxist leader Jyoti Basu, in a letter to Harkishan Singh Surjeet, has said that he is “pained” on being informed of his failing health.

In the letter sent on Wednesday, Mr. Basu recalls the long years he has worked with him, particularly after the split of the Communist Party of India.

He also reflected on the views they shared on the need for unity among the Left parties in West Bengal.

The letter, excerpts of which were published in Ganashakti, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) organ in West Bengal, states: “I am proud that in our State the Left Front government is in power for 31 years with the support of the people and their confidence.”

Mr. Basu expresses the belief that the CPI(M) will gradually gain success in various parts of the country and the people will be the final victors after overcoming various pulls and pressures.

He commends Mr. Surjeet for his role in keeping away a communal force like the Bharatiya Janata Party from power at the Centre.

The veteran leader refers to the Left parties’ stand of supporting the United Progressive Alliance government from outside on the basis of the Common Minimum Programme.