CPI(ML) demands nationwide referendum on Indo-US nuclear deal

Darbhanga, Aug 10 (UNI) The CPI(ML) today demanded nationwide referendum on whether India should move ahead to finalise the Indo-US nuclear deal, terming it against the sovereignty of the country.

Addressing a seminar on the issue here, member of the central committee of the party and president of the Akhil Bhartiya Khet Mazdoor Sabha Dhirendra Kumar Jha said the credibility of the US as friend had always been doubtful and India should be cautious in finalising such a crucial deal with that country.

''We have always been wary of the US due to its not so encouraging track record of lending support to India when it needed the most,'' he said.

''There is a risk of India becoming 'B' team of the US if the nuclear deal is finalised,'' he claimed.

''Even several top scientists of the country have voiced their concern over the proposed nuclear deal,'' Mr Jha pointed out, adding that moving ahead in this direction would prove to be detrimental to the national interest.

''India has great potential for hydro electricity and the Centre should prepare an ambitious action plan to tap it,'' he maintained, adding that the cost of Hydro energy generation was low in comparison with that of electricy produced in nuclear reactors.

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