The editorial says under the present circumstances “Indian people simply do not have a choice. Both communalism and imperialism need to be fought against.”

“The CPI(M) and the other Left parties had extended outside support to this UPA government precisely to prevent the communal forces from holding the reins of State power. This support however, was based on the CMP,” it says.

“In fact an earlier draft of the CMP had contained a formulation that India would seek a strategic relationship with the US. With the objections correctly raised by the CPI(M), this was amended to read as follows: Independent foreign policy be pursued to promote multi-polarity in world relations and oppose all attempts at unilateralism. This is precisely what the CPI(M) is asking the government to adhere to,” says the People’s Democracy.

The internal debate in the CPI(M) on the desirability of toppling the government seems to be headed for such a scenario — unless the government climbs down. The hawks have tried to outmaneuver sceptics such as Jyoti Basu and Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee who have argued against toppling the government.

The central committee resolution authorising the party politburo to take necessary steps to stop operationalisation of the deal can be interpreted in only way now — withdraw support if the government takes the next step.

On its part, the Congress thinks it will gain nothing by freezing the deal. The party believes it will only give the Left the advantage of choosing the time of the elections — because they can pull down the government on any pretext, any time. The Congress will also lose face irreparably if it were to relent.