Top leaders of CPI(M) and BJP-RSS on Monday discussed the possibilities of putting an end to political conflicts in Kerala, especially in Kannur district, known for its history of murderous political violence between the two parties. The leaders put forward suggestions to avoid conflicts at a meeting convened by Marxist Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram in the context of the all-party meeting to be held in Kannur on Tuesday.
“It was a discussion where the participants talked openly. Some practical suggestions have come from both sides. There were suggestions that are to be looked into by the Government as well as the two political sides,” said State CPI(M) secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan after the meeting, adding that both sides had agreed to cooperate in efforts to restore peace.
“We will provide wholehearted support to the efforts for maintaining peace but the police should try for this honestly and sincerely,” said State BJP chief Kummanam Rajasekharan while RSS Prant Karyavah P Gopalankutty Master said, “We have already made it clear that we are ready to cooperate with any effort for establishing and maintaining peace.” The other participants at the meeting included CPI(M)’s State secretariat members MV Govindan and Anathalavattom Anandan and senior BJP leader O Rajagopal. The Chief Minister, a native of Kannur, took the initiative for the bilateral talks following the failure of the district-level peace meets held earlier.