The Hindu : National : UPA Government a follower of U.S., says Basu

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Saturday, Mar 04, 2006

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UPA Government a follower of U.S., says Basu

Special Correspondent

Has deviated from the principles of non-alignment in foreign policy

Kolkata: Veteran CPI (M) leader Jyoti Basu on Friday alleged that the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government had deviated from the principles of non-alignment in foreign policy initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru.

A day after protests in the city against the visit of U.S. President George W. Bush, Mr. Basu said: "It seems to me that the UPA Government is a great follower of the U.S. ... they [the Government] are completely altering what Nehru had pursued [in international policy]," Mr. Basu said here.

It appears that the "present government is thinking that nothing can be done without [the consent of] America," he added.

"[But] what can we do? We have no alternative at the moment," Mr. Basu said when asked whether the CPI (M) would review its support to the UPA Government.

"While conveying its opposition to the U.S. President's visit to the country, the ruling Left Front has sharpened its tirade against the Centre for succumbing to U.S. pressure on matters related to foreign policy," he said.

Mr. Basu criticised the Prime Minister for ignoring protocol and receiving Mr. Bush at the airport. "It is shameful for India and has never happened during previous Congress regimes," he said.

"Poll schedule illogical"

On the Election Commission's decision to hold Assembly elections in five phases, Mr. Basu said: "The decision amounts to an insult to West Bengal. It is unwarranted and illogical."

Earlier Commissions had commended the State for free and fair elections.

Even Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee was pleased with the manner in which the last Assembly elections were held, he pointed out.

Chief Electoral Officer Debasish Sen, along with other senior State officials held a video-conference with the Superintendents of Police and District Magistrates during the day instructing them to ensure that the model of conduct sent by the Election Commission is maintained.

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