Now, RSP plans Left conclave

8220;We are inviting all Left leaning parties. Let the CPIM and the Maoists, who are the extreme ends of the Left spectrum, share their views. We hope such an exchange of ideas would make the Maoists more moderate and the mainstream parties like the CPIM and the CPI more aggressively Left,8221; said RSP general secretary T J Chandrachoodan. Aware of the resentment brewing within the largest front partner, Chandrachhodan was quick to add that he was not sure about the CPIM8217;s participation.

The CPIM, on the other hand, maintains that it is not aware of the conclave and would respond to it when it gets an invitation. 8220;Broader Left unity is a beautiful concept,8221; quipped a CPIM leader.

Obviously the CPIM is not amused. What frets the party the most is the inclusion of ultra Left parties, especially the Maoists and the SUCI, in the conclave. Both these parties were part of the grand alliance against the CPIM during the local body polls in West Bengal and had effectively dampened the party8217;s chances. The RSP had fought the elections alone and, significantly, was the only party in the ruling front which increased its tally.

8220;We have been raising the issue of withdrawal of support for more than a year now. Every time we were told by the CPIM and the CPI that withdrawal of support would help the BJP. But the BJP needs nobody8217;s help if the UPA Government continues to perform like this,8221; said Chandrachoodan.