CPI-M leader likens RSS to ISIS

Kochi, Oct 16: A senior CPI(M) leader today equated RSS with terror outfit Islamic State, alleging that Sangh was "targeting Hindus" criticising its ideology like ISIS which attacks Muslims who are opposing it in Iraq and Syria.

CPI(M) Kerala state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said recent incidents targeting writers, including Sudheendra Kulkarni, former BJP leader and aide to former deputy prime minister L K Advani, over a book written by former Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Kasuri in Mumbai were clear indication of "growing intolerance" under BJP-rule in the country.

"Secularism is facing a grave threat in our country. RSS is working like an Indian form of ISIS... RSS is targeting the Hindus propagating progressive ideas in the country.

All such things are happening after BJP government came into power in our country," Balakrishnan told reporters here referring to the ISIS attacks on Muslims in Iraq and Syria. The CPI(M) politburo member alleged that people belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and the backward communities will be the next target of RSS.

Accusing the RSS of attempting to push forward through the BJP-led government at the Centre, its plans to scrap the reservation system, Balakrishnan said CPIM was of the view that the present reservation for jobs in the government sector and admission in educational institutions for SC, ST and Other backward sections has to continue.

He also said the economically weaker sections in the forward community also should be given reservation in jobs so that all the poor in the country would get social justice.

Balakrishnan flayed organisations like Sree Narayana Dharam Paripalana Yogam, an outfit of numerically strong backward Ezhava community and Indian Union Muslim League for "being silent" on the reservation issue.

Criticising the SNDP leadership's move to form a political party to cater to the needs of Hindus in the state, the CPI(M) leader said it would act as a temporary shelter for those who wish to get into the RSS fold.

PTI