As far as the stand on the deal is concerned, there is no difference in the Left parties. We differ only on the issue of pullout.

One of the reasons identified for the electoral defeat by the CPM’s central committee is ‘arrogance of cadres’.

The CPM, being the biggest partner in the Front, is head of government in West Bengal and Kerala. In the course of that, the behaviour and lifestyle of cadres has altered considerably. Communist modesty, simplicity gave way to arrogance and bossism. And the tendency to interfere in all aspects of life of the common people — even in a club, even in a school committee. This caused resentment in the people and is one of the causes of alienation of cadres from the masses.

To a much smaller extent, this could be seen in cadres of other Left parties. But they were not regarded as the bosses in social and political life.

One of the first things we will have to change — primarily the CPM, as the largest party — is the behaviour and approach of the cadres towards the people. All of us have to change and correct ourselves. But the bigger party has to change the most.

I want to emphasise that this has been pointed out with a view to improve the relationship between parties and also between party cadres and the people. Left unity is a must if in this country the Left has to make a mark against other parties.

... contd.