CPI expresses concern over growing number of SEZs

Hyderabad, Mar 25 (UNI) The CPI today passed a resolution expressing concern over the manner in which the Centre was granting permission for large number of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the country.

The resolution passed at the party's 20th National Congress here said the SEZ Act should be drastically amended to include all laws of the country in the SEZs.

It also resolved to prevent the government from acquiring land for the SEZ.

''Those who want to set up SEZ should be asked to buy land. The government should prevent SEZ being set up on agricultural land and close to populated cities and towns,'' the resolution said.

The party demanded that all laws of the land, including the trade union law, should be enforced in the SEZs and unreasonable tax exemption to the SEZs should be withdrawn.

Over 600 SEZs have been approved by the Centre by acquiring large tracts of agricultural land from farmers at throw away prices, the party claimed.

While farmers would be deprived of their land and livelihood, the business houses would stand to gain and the land acquired for the SEZs would not be fully utilised for industrial purpose, the party alleged.

The party demanded no further setting up of SEZs and repeal of Land Acquisition Act.

It demanded that all industries should be provided level-playing field since giving concessions only to industries in SEZ would be detrimental to the interests of industries located elsewhere.

UNI BR VA AJ NY KN1817