•Unni Rajen Shanker: Is the RSP left of the CPI(M) or right of the CPI(M)?

Abani Roy: Left or right depends on the policy. Our policies must be in line with whatever we believe in. If it’s not so, then sometimes, particularly in Bengal, we have to differ with the CPI(M). It happened in case of Singur and Nandigram.

•Coomi Kapoor: Some people describe the CPI(M) as the Big Brother of all Communist parties. How would you describe your relationship with it?

Abani Roy: In a democratic society, they have more in terms of numbers. That is the case at the state level and at the Centre. They had 45 MPs, so they decided when to withdraw support from the Government, although we did not agree with them. It was not at the right time.

•Coomi Kapoor: When did you suggest pulling out of the Government?

Abani Roy: In 2005, at our party conference in Pondicherry, we took the decision to tell our Left partners that it was time to reconsider our support to the Government, especially knowing the Congress and what they will do with economic reforms. We told the partners, continuously, that we should pull out. But they kept saying no. Eventually, they pulled out on the issue of the nuclear deal. But the main thing is that we work for the people, for the poorer sections, the farmers and the working class. For us, the price rise was the main issue. So, it would have been more effective if we had pulled out much earlier. Now, it has become a question of international politics and the imperialistic attitude of America.

... contd.