Communist Party of India (CPI) General-Secretary A B Bardhan on Friday said that the biggest mistake the Centre can make in its efforts to put down rising Naxal activities would be to involve the Army.
He said that such a move would trigger a civil war in the country, since the Naxalites have support from the downtrodden and deprived sections of the people.
Addressing mediapersons at a 'Meet The Press' programme organized by the APUWJ here on Friday, the veteran Communist leader accused the Congress and the Trinamool Congress of being hand-in-glove for petty gains. He said that if the Army was involved in the fight against Maoists, it would be 'very dangerous' for the country as well as for the Trinamool Congress.
Addressing questions over the future of Telangana, Bardhan said that the Srikrishna Committee was seeking opinions and consulting the people of the state over the matter. He said that he had faith in the Srikrishna Committee and that he will wait for its report.
When questioned about the fact that the BJP has said that it does not have faith in the Srikrishna Commission, Bardhan said that this was due to Panel Chairman Justice B N Srikrishna's earlier report on the Mumbai riots which went against the BJP - Shiv Sena combine that was ruling Maharashtra at that time.
Bardhan said that all those interested in the future of the state must wait for the Panel's report and honour it when it is submitted.
He said that the CPI's changed stand over the Telangana issue was because of the party's deference to the wishes of the people of Telangana.
As for the assembly by-polls, the veteran Left leader said that his party has still not made up its mind whether or not to contest the by-elections.
He also said the CPI will strive to strengthen its base in the state and bring unity among the various constituents of the Left.