Joint statement issued by Biman Bose and Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee

Highlights

The election results have indicated that the Left Front, which has been in the Government uninterruptedly for the last 34 years, will no longer be in office. This is an unexpected result. The Left Front is accepting the mandate of the electorate of West Bengal with all humility and promising to play the role of a responsible and constructive opposition in the state assembly. Besides adopting specific corrective measures after identifying the reasons behind the defeat, the Left Front is committed to continue with its programmes and activities in order to regain the confidence of the people. The Left Front also congratulates and expresses its gratitude to all those who stood by us in this difficult situation marked by an all-round attack against the Left. The poor and common people of the state have made quite a few gains over the last 34 years. The working people, the peasants and the lower income groups have attained dignity. The Leftists hope that the people will remain vigilant in defence of their rights and dignity. The Left Front is appealing to people to maintain peace and ensure a democratic environment in all areas of the state. We appeal to all leaders, activists and supporters of the Left Front not to fall prey to provocations and to make preparations in all municipal wards, villages and areas - as one organised family - for undertaking mass work in the interests of the people. All complaints should be filed properly with the local police station. The Left Front leadership at the state and district levels will always stand by you. The Left Front MLAs will be prepared to defend the rights of the people both inside and outside the state assembly.