It’s wait and watch for CPM

The CPI(M) has thought through its strategy for Sunday’s battle with Mamata Bannerjee and her ragtag army of peasants and volunteers – protesters will be given a long rope.

Asked what will the state do if Mamata Banerjee’s dharna creates law and order problems on August 24, industry minister Nirupam Sen said, “It’s her concern, not ours.”

Sen knows that as Tata has taken the initiative in the tussle, Mamata will have to think twice before going for the jugular. By Friday night, the district administration had been told that the state would not meddle in case of a peaceful dharna.

If the Opposition turns violent, the ruling party will be able to point fingers at them for the setback to industrialisation. And if the dharna is peaceful, Mamata cannot end her movement without having something to show for it.

In fact, the CPI(M) is happy that Ratan Tata has come out in the open at last and put Mamata under pressure. She cannot back out now.

However, CPI(M) leaderss are quite sure that trouble could break out anytime on Sunday.

“If that happens, the state is bound to take action... Clamping section 144 in Singur will also be easier then,” a party MP told HT.