CPI(M) slams PM Modi's address, demands Parliamentary debate on key national issues

CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby has criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address to the nation, stating that it cannot replace a structured discussion in Parliament. Baby emphasized that democracy requires a two-way conversation and that the Prime Minister’s televised speech should not be used as a substitute for a parliamentary debate. "Democracy is not a one-way path. The Prime Minister's televised speech cannot take the place of a structured debate on the subject matter in Parliament," Baby stated in his reaction.

Prior to the Prime Minister’s address, Baby had written to Modi requesting that a special session of Parliament be convened to discuss national concerns such as recent ceasefire violations along the borders and other critical issues. The letter also called for an open debate on matters relating to national security, emphasizing the importance of a formal parliamentary dialogue on these issues.

After the Prime Minister’s address, Baby accused Modi of overlooking several key topics, particularly the lives lost in cross-border shelling. He pointed out that the Prime Minister did not mention the names of the victims of such incidents or offer condolences to their families. "In his emotional speech, the Prime Minister did not deem it necessary to mention those who were killed in cross-border shelling or their families," Baby remarked.

Additionally, Baby criticized Modi for not acknowledging the role played by the people of Jammu and Kashmir in the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam last month. He highlighted the selfless contributions made by the locals in helping the victims of the attack and condemned the lack of recognition in the Prime Minister's speech. "The Prime Minister did not say a word about the courage of the Kashmiri people or their selfless contribution in helping the victims," Baby stated.

The CPI(M) also condemned the Prime Minister’s failure to address ongoing hate campaigns and support for the foreign secretary, who had been targeted for representing the government in public statements. In conclusion, Baby reiterated that dialogue in a democratic system is crucial, and a one-sided address by the Prime Minister cannot replace meaningful discussion in Parliament.