The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Tuesday vowed to focus on Dalit, adivasi and minority issues with more vigour, at the Extended Meeting of its Central Committee in Vijayawada.
Talking to media persons, CPM General Secretary Prakash Karat said that the party would also increase its opposition to the UPA government's 'pro-US' tilt and take measures necessary to fight the threat posed by Hindutva forces.
Admitting that some sections of the society have moved away from the party, Karat said that the CPM will make special efforts to raise the issues of oppressed sections of the society, including the Dalits, adivasis, minorities and women, and try to reforge the link between the party and the people.
He said that the party has identified its shortcomings and is working on ways to overcome them.
The veteran Communist leader was candid enough to acknowledge that his party was unsuccessful in expanding its base, and said that this will be overcome with double the vigour and efforts.
He also said that efforts will be made to bring about unity among the Left parties.
Karat revealed that a national campaign to highlight the 'nexus' between the Trinamool Congress and the Maoists will be held in West Bengal between September 12 and 18. He also accused this nexus of attacking his party cadre.
Focussing his attention on the threat of communalism driving a wedge between communities, the Communist leader said that his party has long felt the necessity of combating the communalisation of politics. He said that though the Bharatiya Janata Party was defeated in the general elections, it still ruled some states and is active along with some other Hindutva organisations.
Karat vowed that his party would continue its fight against communal and divisive forces till they are isolated and defeated.
The CPM leader also revealed the contents of a resolution which has earmarked 11 tasks to be addressed before the next party Congress.
The Extended Meeting of the CPI(M) Central Committee was held mainly to formulate the political and tactical line to be adopted by the party, in its bid to capture and retain power in Kerala and West Bengal.