cpi-m-takes-stand-in-the-manifesto-launched-calls-for-urgent-electoral-reforms-and-women-s-reservation

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections on Thursday, highlighting key promises and commitments if the party comes to power.

 

Led by General Secretary Sitaram Yechury and senior leaders Prakash Karat, Brinda Karat, and Nilotpal Basu, the CPI(M) emphasised its commitment to scrapping the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

 

Yechury, addressing a press conference at the party office in Delhi, reiterated the CPI(M)'s stance on maintaining the separation of religion from politics, state, government, and administration. The party vowed to fight against hate speech and crimes and pledged to repeal the CAA if elected to power.

 

The manifesto outlines the CPI(M)'s agenda for restoring the constitutional rights of states, advocating for devolution of 50% of Central taxes to states, including surcharges and cess levied by the Centre.

 

Additionally, the party stands for the selection of Governors from a panel proposed by the Chief Minister, aiming to curb policies promoting centralization at the expense of states.

 

Furthermore, the CPI(M) manifesto addresses issues concerning draconian laws like the UAPA and PMLA, emphasising the protection and strengthening of independent institutions' autonomy and defending the democratic rights of the people.

 

Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, the CPI(M) reiterates its support for the region's autonomous status under Section 370, advocating for prompt elections to the State Assembly and the restoration of full statehood. The manifesto also calls for a law mandating reservations in the private sector and the immediate filling of vacancies in reserved posts without dilution.

 

In terms of electoral reforms, the CPI(M) emphasises the need to reduce the influence of monetary resources in the electoral process. The party advocates for state funding of elections and a ban on corporate donations to political parties, aiming to strengthen democracy and ensure transparency in electoral funding.

 

Overall, the CPI(M) manifesto reflects the party's commitment to social justice, federalism, democratic principles, and electoral reforms. It presents a comprehensive agenda aimed at addressing key issues facing the nation and empowering marginalised communities while promoting transparency and accountability in governance.