AICC lashes out at Left Front Govt in WB over Nandigram

New Delhi, Nov 11: The Congress today lashed out at the Left Front government in West Bengal for failing in its ''primary responsibility'' of protecting its citizens in Nandigram and described the situation in the state as ''totally unacceptable''.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Mohsina Kidwai said in a statement it appeared that the writ of the state government did not run in the area.

Asserting that the Congress was ''disturbed'' at the happenings in Nandigram and surrounding areas for several months, the AICC said violence, killing, arson, looting and in some areas even rapes had been alleged to be committed by miscreants.

''...it appears that the writ of the state government does not run in that area. This situation is totally unacceptable,'' the statement said while calling for firm action against the guilty.

It said the primary responsibility of any government, ''worth its name'' was to protect its citizens and ensure the safety and security of their lives and property. ''Unfortunately it is not happening so in Nandigram,'' Ms Kidwai said in the statement.

Pointing out that the Centre had rushed Para-Military Forces to the state at the state government's request to supplement their efforts to restore law and order, the AICC expressed the hope that normalcy would be restored without any delay and the people have peace and tranquility.

The Party demanded that miscreants, irrespective of Party affiliation or attachments, be dealt with firmly and guilty be brought to book without any delay.

UNI