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Published 20:06 IST, December 20th 2023

CPI(M) accuses BJP of undermining Parliamentary system, alleges attempt to silence Opposition

Speaking at a press conference, Salim emphasized the recent incidents that, in the eyes of the CPI(M), point to the erosion of the parliamentary system.

Reported by: Isha Bhandari
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CPI(M) accuses BJP of undermining Parliamentary system, alleges attempt to silence Opposition
CPI(M) accuses BJP of undermining Parliamentary system, alleges attempt to silence Opposition | Image: ANI

New Delhi: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday, accusing it of orchestrating an assault on the parliamentary system in India. 

CPI(M) West Bengal state secretary Md Salim asserted that a deliberate attempt is underway to transform the Parliament into an opposition-free space, a move that, according to him, threatens the foundation of parliamentary democracy.

Speaking at a press conference, Salim emphasized the recent incidents that, in the eyes of the CPI(M), point to the erosion of the parliamentary system. 

He cited the security breach at the Parliament complex on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack as evidence of inadequate security and surveillance measures. 

Salim highlighted the suspension of 143 opposition MPs from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha in the past week for disrupting proceedings. 

Opposition parties, including the CPI(M), have been pushing for a discussion on the Parliament security breach and a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on the matter.

CPI(M) accuses BJP of stifling dissent 

Accusing the BJP of stifling dissent and silencing the opposition, Salim announced that the Left Front would organize protests across West Bengal as part of the larger INDIA alliance program.

Responding to queries about Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Salim alleged that it exposed the Trinamool Congress MPs' inability to address the state's concerns in Parliament. 

According to him, the meeting with Mamata Banerjee demonstrated the Trinamool Congress's dependence on her leadership for crucial discussions with the Centre.

Salim called for transparency from the state government, urging it to provide a white paper on pending central funds. He pressed the BJP to clarify the legal steps taken in response to the alleged non-declaration of accounts by the state concerning funds already provided.

Updated 20:08 IST, December 20th 2023