Basu minces no words on NDA’s `saffron’

But on fixed terms for legislatures, Basu was critical. “Whatever form of Parliamentary democracy we follow, frequent election is not the fault of political parties. If any government is defeated in a no-confidence motion, it should accept it and face a fresh mandate,” he maintained.

Basu described the situation in the country as very bad. The NDA Government is led by the BJP which is guided by a fundamentalist force like the RSS, the Communist leader sought to reason. A fundamentalist force leading a Government became a reality after 53 years of Independence. “We recognise it and we will fight it out.”

To Vajpayee’s controversial statement on Ram Mandir issue, Basu said he was surprised that the Prime Minister made such a statement. It was not expected from him.

He reiterated that the demolition of Babri Masjid was `barbaric’, and claimed he has proof to substantiate that the BJP had a hand in it. “I will give evidence to the Liberhan Commission about the organised demolition of the mosque on January 29,” he said adding, “I have not got a formal invitation from the Commission so far.” He has asked the West Bengal government to send his speech at the 61st Indian History Congress to the commission which has asked for it.

On the possibility of the proposed Third Front, Basu said it is difficult. The earlier Front collapsed not for the Left parties but because of split among other Front partners. The Left parties are still working for it and a fresh look will be given to it after elections in five states.

Asked if he will lead the Third Front, Basu said there is no dearth of leaders. But he would not hesitate if the Front partners elect him, he added.

Expressing confidence that the Left Front will again come back to power in West Bengal, Basu said an uncertain Trinamool Congress and the BJP are clamouring for President’s Rule which means the BJP rule. “I will say with certainty that they will not come to power,” he asserted.

“If such an event takes place, the people of West Bengal will give a befitting reply. We will fight it out in the court and in elections if the Centre conceded such a demand,” he said.

To a question on political violence in the state, Basu said a reign of terror has been let loose by a section of the Opposition, particularly by Trinamool. He said, he was satisfied with the performance of the Buddhadev government.

Replying to another question regarding UP, Basu said though his party is a small force in that state, it will support Mulayam Singh Yadav who will be able to fight the BJP there.

On the performance of the Naveen Patnaik government, Basu said he is not aware about his performance, but unfortunately, he brought the BJP into Orissa politics which is not correct. He quickly added that the party Patnaik is leading is not communal.