A day after Tata Motors called back its employees from Singur, citing constant intimidation by Trinamool Congress workers, a galaxy of corporate India’s top CEOs rallied behind Ratan Tata today, seeking immediate political dialogue to find a solution.

Bharti Group chairman and CEO Sunil Mittal said such resistance would be counterproductive to the growth of the country as the much needed fresh wave of industrialisation in the country could suffer. He said it was imperative to keep the project in West Bengal.

Gautam Thapar, chairman & CEO, Avantha Group, said that a pullout by the Tatas at this stage would severely tarnish India’s image as an investment destination. “It is unfortunate that India’s leading corporate group, with an exemplary record in social consciousness and stakeholder care, has been caught up in an unseemingly political pull and push is unfortunate,” he said.

For India, the Nano is important and must be on the roads in time. “The world deserves it and India deserves no less,” said Jamshyd N Godrej, chairman and managing director, Godrej & Boyce. The Tatas have invested about Rs 1,500 crore in the project that is 85 per cent complete with plans to roll out the first Nano in October. Vouching for the Tata Group’s social commitment, Sunil Kant Munjal, chairman, Hero Corporate Services said, “I have no doubt that the Tatas are fully aware of their responsibilities in Singur as they have demonstrated in many of their companies.”

C K Birla, chairman, Hindustan Motors Ltd, pointed out that the project was a prestigious one not only for India but also for West Bengal as it would reinforce the state’s commitment towards industrial resurgence. “Tata’s Nano project showcases India’s manufacturing and innovative abilities. It would be unfortunate if issues other than economic and social come into play,” he said. “Withdrawal of the project will severely affect West Bengal’s image, and it certainly won’t do any good to India’s image. Political parties must rise above partisan lines ensure continuity and growth in economic activity and also help in creating a peaceful environment,” Munjal said.

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