NEW DELHI: When the Left parties meet here on Tuesday, they will discuss various policy decisions of the United Progressive Alliance Government with which they are less than happy. From the proposed nuclear deal with Washington to the high prices, everything will come under the scrutiny of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the Communist Party of India, the Revolutionary Socialist Party and the Forward Bloc.

Talking to The Hindu , CPI leader D. Raja said there was no structured agenda before the leaders. However, discontent with the prevailing high prices of foodgrains, sugar, vegetables and petroleum products would top the agenda.

He pointed out that the Left parties had already given a detailed note to the Government. They had proposed cuts in duties on petroleum products as the international prices of crude could rise further. It would neither be wise nor feasible to continue increasing retail prices and allowing a spiral rise in prices of all other essential goods.

"Petroleum is an essential item, and India is almost entirely dependent on imports. Even at the prevailing high price of international crude, the cost of each litre of petrol is just Rs. 21 while Rs. 26 or more is the burden of taxes imposed," RSP leader Abani Roy said. "There should be a freeze on taxes on petroleum products," he added

At variance

The leaders said that since Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had made statements about the proposed India-U.S. nuclear deal, two different Bills had been moved in the U.S. Congress and Senate committees.

"Some of the clauses seem to be at variance with what the Prime Minister told Parliament earlier," Mr. Raja said, adding that the Left would like to know from Dr. Singh himself the details of what was being worked out. "We are concerned," he said.

There is the view among some Left parties that a small disinvestment — divesting 5 to 10 per cent of equity held — by the Government in some public sector undertakings may not meet very strong opposition provided it guarantees that the money received from the sale would be used to revive some sick PSUs.

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