Thursday, November 7, 2024

The Great Russian Revolution:

 Its Lessons for the World and India Today

     ---D. RAJA, General Secretary, CPI


The current geopolitical landscape is marked by a multifaceted web of conflicts
and alliances, with US imperialism acting as a destabilizing force. The United States' interventionist foreign policy—characterized by military interventions, economic sanctions, and the promotion of regime change—has contributed to regional instabilities, particularly in the Middle East and South Asia. This imperialist approach complicates global Geo-political landscape and undermines the role of the United Nations. It also heightens tensions in a multipolar world, challenging the quest for a stable and just global order. In this context, the lessons of the Russian Revolution of 1917 are of salient importance in bringing about peace, stability, mutual respect and harmony in global and domestic affairs, particularly in India.

Lenin's Decree on Peace, issued on November 26, 1917, was a pivotal moment in the context of World War I and the broader global political landscape. Emerging from the Bolshevik Revolution, this decree called for an immediate end to hostilities and advocated for peace negotiations without annexations or reparations. It was a direct and bold response to the First World War's brutal toll on humanity, reflecting the widespread urge for an end to the conflict. Lenin rallied massive support for the Bolsheviks by establishing himself and the Party as champions of peace with concerns for the people, contrasting sharply with the imperialist ambitions of the other powers engaged in the war.

Lenin analyzed the imperialist stage of capitalism and pointed out that socialism is the alternative. Socialism stands for peace and development in the world. Socialism is for common good, happiness and prosperity for all. Socialism puts an end to all forms of exploitations and enslavements. Socialism liberates people from all discriminations and injustices.

The global context during that time was marked by widespread disillusionment with the war, particularly among the colonial nations whose resources and populations were exploited for the benefit of European powers. The call for peace resonated not only in Russia but also in various colonies and territories where anti-imperialist struggles were growing. Lenin's decree sparked hope among colonized peoples that they might leverage the weakening of imperial powers to seek self-determination and independence. The Soviets' anti-imperialist stance and advocacy for peace had a profound impact on the aspirations of many nations striving to shake off colonial rule, igniting a broader revolutionary wave across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The ramifications of Lenin's decree extended far beyond Russia, influencing international politics in significant ways. As colonial subjects began to interpret the call for peace and self-determination as a blueprint for their struggles, it contributed to the emergence of nationalist movements across the globe. Countries like India and Egypt saw a rise in anti-colonial activism, driven by the desire to emulate the Bolshevik model of revolutionary change. Additionally, the concept of self-determination found traction in the post-war settlement, particularly at the Paris Peace Conference, although imperial powers tried their best to undermine these aspirations. Thus, Lenin’s Decree on Peace not only altered the course of Russian history but also set in motion a transformative wave that challenged the foundations of colonialism worldwide and gave hope of world peace amidst imperialist chaos and exploitation.

At the same time, Lenin’s call for national self-determination resonated deeply in colonial nations, offering a powerful framework for anti-colonial movements seeking independence from colonial rule. His emphasis on the right of nations to determine their own fate inspired many leaders and activists across Asia and Africa, who viewed his ideas as a validation of their struggles against colonial oppression. In India, this sentiment found expression in various movements. The influence of Lenin's doctrine was evident in the ideological evolution of the Indian independence movement. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru began to incorporate notions of self-determination and anti-imperialism into their political agendas, recognizing the importance of unity among diverse Indian communities. 

The emergence of the Communist Party of India in 1925 reflected the impact of Leninist ideas among the masses, as it sought to align India's struggle for freedom with the global revolutionary movement. These movements and their leaders were not only influenced by Lenin's call but also contributed to a broader narrative of resistance that would eventually culminate in India's independence in 1947, highlighting the transformative power of Lenin's ideas on national self-determination in the colonial context.

Further, the vast geography of Russia also presented a formidable challenge due to the existence of several different nationalities. Conception of the Soviet Republic was done keeping in mind this diversity. Lenin’s approach to the issue of nationalities emphasized the right of distinct ethnic groups to self-determination, which holds significant relevance for a multi-lingual, multi-ethnic country like India. India, with its diverse population encompassing numerous languages, religions, and ethnic backgrounds, this idea could serve as a guiding principle for fostering unity while allowing for a robust federal framework. Lenin’s advocacy for the rights of oppressed nationalities encourages a framework where minority voices can be heard and included in the governance process, thereby reducing tensions and fostering a sense of belonging among different communities. By recognizing the importance of local identities within a broader national framework, India can work toward a more inclusive society that not only acknowledges but celebrates its diversity. Lenin's insights on nationalities thus provide a historical lens through which India can navigate its complex identity landscape, aiming for unity in diversity while ensuring that all groups have a stake in the country's future.

We should be conscious of the fact that the Russian Revolution of 1917 had a profound impact on India’s struggle for independence, inspiring a new wave of political consciousness among various nationalist factions. The Bolsheviks’ successful overthrow of the tsarist regime and their emphasis on anti-imperialism resonated deeply with Indian leaders and activists, particularly the leftist movements emerging in the country. The idea of a revolution that prioritized the rights of the oppressed and the need for self-determination provided a compelling framework for Indian nationalists who were increasingly disillusioned with British colonial rule. This led to the formation of the Communist Party of India in 1925, which played a crucial role in uniting various social classes against imperialism and advocating for workers' and peasants' rights. The Communist Party’s engagement in trade union activities and peasant movements significantly contributed to the broader anti-colonial struggle, creating a vital link between class struggle and national liberation.

The sacrifices made by Indian communists during this period exemplified their commitment to the cause of independence. Revolutionaries such as Bhagat Singh, who was deeply influenced by Marxist ideologies, became iconic martyrs in the fight against British oppression. His execution in 1931 galvanized youth across the country, reinforcing the idea that revolution was necessary for true freedom. Additionally, the efforts of many communists in the Telangana Rebellion of the late 1940s demonstrated their readiness to take up arms in the quest for justice, often at great personal cost. The sacrifices of these individuals and the broader communist movement not only enriched the Indian independence struggle but also highlighted the interconnectedness of class and national struggles. Their legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions on social justice and equity in India, underscoring the enduring impact of the Russian Revolution on the nation’s path to independence and building a new India – a Socialist India.

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Red Salute, Comrade Sitaram Yechury!

 A Tribute to Comrade Sitaram Yechury: A Life of Unwavering Dedication

New Delhi: 12th September 2024: (The Comrade Screen Desk)::

Comrade Sitaram Yechury, a stalwart of the Indian Left movement, passed away on September 12, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to the cause of socialism, equality, and justice.

Born on August 12, 1952, in Madras, Yechury grew up in Hyderabad and later moved to Delhi, where he became involved in student politics. He joined the Students' Federation of India (SFI) in 1974 and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in 1975. His political career spanned over four decades, during which he held various leadership positions, including General Secretary of the CPI(M) from 2015 to 2022.

Yechury was a prolific writer and authored several books on politics, economics, and social issues. He was also a regular columnist and edited the party's fortnightly newspaper, People's Democracy.

Throughout his life, Yechury remained committed to the principles of Marxism-Leninism and fought tirelessly for the rights of the working class, farmers, and marginalized communities. He played a key role in building a secular democratic pro-people government and was instrumental in creating an impregnable leftist bastion at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).

Yechury's passing is a loss not only for the Left movement but for the entire nation. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our struggles for a more just, equitable, and socialist India.

We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and comrades. May his memory be a blessing, and may his life's work continue to inspire us to strive for a better world.

Red Salute, Comrade Sitaram Yechury!

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

The hand of American imperialism behind the genocide of Palestinians

 Tuesday 6th August 2024 at 19:09 WhatsApp

It was asked whether war is the solution to any problem?


Chandigarh
: 06 August 2024: (Karam Vakil//The Comrade Screen)::

Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India (ML Liberation), AILU, Epso, CITU, Etc and EAL held a massive protest rally at Plaza, Chandigarh against the brutal genocide of the Palestinian people.

Addressing this rally, Bant Brar, State Secretary, CPI said that the Israeli government and the Israeli army have neglected the human rights of the Palestinian people. Thousands of unarmed children and women have been mercilessly murdered by using lethal bombs. Hospitals and refugee convoys have not been spared. From where are the leaders of the war camps teaching humanity the lesson of humanity and justice? Is the right to live only the war-gambling hacker? Is war the solution to any problem? Displacing the common people from their homes and destroying the country of Palestinians by committing genocide is not justified in any way. We extend our deepest condolences to all the Palestinian people.

Devi Dayal Sharma Ex-Secretary CPI, Jaspal Dapar (Lawyer Leader), Karam Singh Vakil President All India Lawyers Union, Ann D Tiwari - Secretary (PSS Scientific), Asha Rana Edwa State Vice President, Balkar Sidhu Rangkarmi, Jobi Rafail, Raj Kumar Secretary CPI, Muhammad Shahnaz Gorsi Secretary, CPI(M), RL Modgil General Secretary-EPSO, Satyavir Secretary Etc and Sagir Ahmed Aaylu leader while addressing the gathering raised the slogan of Hail to the Palestinian people and condemned the Israeli aggression.

The rally was concluded by chanting slogans demanding to stop the unnecessary war imposed on the Palestinian people and to restore peace and tranquility in Palestine. The forum was moderated by Karam Singh Vakil.

Monday, August 5, 2024

Seminar organized by Supansaz and AIPSO

Monday 5th August 2024 at 19:32

The memories of Comrade Bharat Prakash were revived

*A serious discussion on the humanitarian crisis in the war zones and the way forward

*India and Pakistan's 100 "precious" never used nuclear bombs, if used 2 billion people will die - Dr. Arun Mitra

*Need to conduct mass movement for world peace - Dr. Mitra

*Arms dealers think like drug smugglers - Ramesh Ratan


Khanna
: 05th August 2024: (M S Bhatia//The Comrade Screen):: 

All India Peace and Solidarity Association (AIPSO) and Supansaaz, an organization dedicated to Punjabi and Punjabi people, organized a seminar In memory of late Comrade Bharat Prakash, an eminent peace fighter belonging to Khanna city. 

The topic was 'Humanitarian crisis in the war zones and the way forward. On this occasion, the stage presiding committee included Balwinder Singh Grewal, Mahendra Jeet Walia, Principal KK Sharma. Dr Arun Mitra (National President Indian Doctors for Peace and Development), M. S. Bhatia (Convener Social Thinkers Forum), Gurnam Kanwar (Editor: Sada Jug) and Comrade Ramesh Ratan spoke as speakers. 

In this seminar, remembering eminent peace fighter Comrade Bharat Prakash, MS Bhatia expressed his condolences on the threats to world peace. Dr. Arun Mitra, expressing concern over the loss of life and property and spread of hunger due to ongoing wars in the world, said that the world is unable to stop it even after seeing the killing of small children in Gaza. 

Israel has adopted the same stance that Hitler once adopted, who oppressed the Jews, and now the war is not only over Gaza, but Israel  has also attacked the West Bank of Lebanon. The assassination of Hamas leader Haniyeh by a missile in Iran has made the situation more serious. 

The dual policy adopted by the US, in which on the one hand it talks about stopping the war to Israel and on the other hand it is supplying deadly weapons, has greatly worsened the situation. The ongoing war in Ukraine threatens the world with nuclear war. 

Here NATO and America do not want to let the war end because for them it is a golden opportunity to sell their weapons. Arms dealers are not concerned about people dying of hunger and thirst. 

On this, Dr. Mitra satirically said that India and Pakistan are far behind in the status of child malnutrition index according to official reports around the world, yet they are blindly spending more than each other on weapons. 

In such a case, the more than 100 "precious" nuclear bombs possessed by both countries, which have not pounded till date despite 4 wars; Now, if they are ever used in war, it is certain that two billion people of the world will be killed. 

He said that the voice of peace movement should be raised all over the world to improve the extremely serious situation. Comrade Ramesh Ratan said that the arms dealers have the mentality of drug profiteers who make their business on piles of dead bodies. 

Comrade Gurnam Kanwar remembered Bharat ji and explained his determination and his thought for peace. In his presidential speech, Balwinder Singh Grewal said that children in India and all over the world are not dying of hunger because of lack of food grains, but it is happening because the profiteers, following the war policies of the arms dealers, have seized or horded the food under themselves.  

At the end of the seminar Advocate Paramjit Singh finally thanked everyone. Teacher leader Gurpreet Singh played the role of stage manager in the seminar. On this occasion, apart from others, Comrade Kewal Singh Banwait, Comrade Avtar Chhibbar, Councilor Sukhmanjit Singh, Jagdev Singh, Paramjit Setia, Comrade Gurmeet Singh, Kamaljit Singh, Shamsher Singh Ghuman, Major Singh and many other young men and women were also present.

Thursday, May 2, 2024

"Congress does neither communal politics nor regional politics"

 Thursday 2nd May 2024, 6:53PM

Non-Congressmen also enthusiastically attended Raja Waring's road show

Raja Waring was warmly welcomed by the city residents, thousands of Congress workers arrived


L
udhiana: 2nd May 2024: (Media Link//Comrade Screen Desk)::

In Ludhiana, there was excitement for the election war. People were on the streets. Communal and regional divisions were a big protest show. There was euphoria and enthusiasm among the workers as well as the common people. Punjab Congress president and party candidate from Ludhiana Lok Sabha constituency Amarinder Singh Raja Waring was welcomed on the red carpet by thousands of Congress workers here today.

As soon as they entered Ludhiana city, they were welcomed by senior party leaders Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Rakesh Pandey, Captain Sandeep Sandhu, Surinder Dawar, Sanjay Talwar, Kuldeep Singh Vaid, Ishwarjot Singh Cheema etc.

For the first time since the announcement of the party's candidate from Ludhiana, Congress workers who brought party flags and banners to welcome Waring in the city witnessed unprecedented enthusiasm and enthusiasm.

Loyal workers said that it was a matter of honor to make the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president the party's candidate from Ludhiana to contest the election against Ravneet Bittu, who joined the BJP and betrayed the party.

He said that not only Bittu has betrayed the party, but also betrayed lakhs of party workers who voted for him and supported him continuously in both the 2014 and 2019 elections.

On this occasion, Waring said that he was very impressed by the love and affection shown by the party workers on his first day in Ludhiana. A visibly happy Waring told the workers, "I feel very grateful and blessed with the love you have showered on me". He said “Having a good start means half the battle is lost. He assured that the party workers will carry this fight to the end.

The PPCC president said that no party in Punjab is as popular as the Congress party. He said that Congress neither does communal politics nor regional politics like BJP, Akali or Aam Aadmi Party. He said “We take everyone along and everyone supports us.

In an informal interaction with reporters during the road show, he said that the Congress party is fully united in its mission to win all the 13 seats in Punjab. He said that Congress did not see any challenge or competition anywhere in Punjab.

He said that on one side there is Congress and on the other side there are others and even if they all come together, they cannot compete with us. It is worth mentioning that the Communist Party of India has supported the Lok Sabha election party and the party workers are fully active in Ludhiana. Congress party candidate is also supporting Raja Waring.

Friday, February 16, 2024

Bharat Bandh was a sign and proof of people's power and will

 Friday: 16th February 2024 at 4:43 PM

 Bharat Bandh proved as passion and energy sign of peoples 


Ludhiana
:16th February 2024: (Media Link//The Comrade Screen Desk)

Bharat Bandh has shown the country and the world the passion and energy of people's power. Bharat Bandh has brought out the anger and protest against the Modi government before the world. It strongly was seen in the villages from dawn to dusk. The impact of this Bharat Bandh was very strong in Ludhiana, Mohali, Mansa, Faridkot, Kharar, Jalandhar and in many other places too. 

The purpose and message of this bandh seemed to have reached every home. People were seen closing their business establishments. While walking on the streets, middle-class shopkeepers closed their shops and sat outside them with stools and chairs. These people were also supporting the bandh and encouraging the people on the way to make the bandh successful. 

People who were near the places of dharnas and rallies were listening to the speakers very attentively. Wherever the farmers, laborers and workers were standing, the boys and girls passing by were making videos of the sit-in with their mobile phones and sending them to their acquaintances living far away. 

On the way, the streets were deserted like a curfew tzpype look. Despite this, the volunteers of the farmer workers were sending the people who had left their homes for medical needs and other necessary tasks in different directions by giving them the right directions. 

Those who had left without need, their vehicles were being sent back after being towed from the nearby cut. Water, tea, biscuits, chips and langars were also provided at the places of dharnas and rallies. 

The traffic was also being stopped by blocking the roads with tractors, trolleys and big trolleys which did not understand the seriousness of the Bharat Bandh. During this Bharat Bandh, people freely came out on the streets against the anti-people policies and impertinent behavior of the Modi government. 

During the rallies held at different places, the speakers strongly condemned the government's behavior towards the farmers' movement. Strongly condemning the atrocities on farmers and workers, it was described as unfortunate. 

Along with this, the decision of the Supreme Court abolishing the election bond was praised and this decision was welcomed. The speakers said that this decision exposes the corporate corruption of the Modi government, so it had to happen.

Workers and farmers out in streets for Bharat Bandh

Criticized governments atrocities on farmers at Shambhu border

Demand Modi’s resignation after Supreme Court verdict on Electoral Bonds

Amid the resounding slogans of Mazdoor Kisan Ekta, a rally was held here today at Bus Stand Ludhiana on the call of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the Central Trade Unions Sectoral Federations/Associations for nationwide strike and Bharat Bandh. 

This call has been given against the repressive policies of the Modi government and its turning away from the commitment given while withdrawing the three Agricultural Bills. After the rally thousands of workers, employees and people from other sections of the society marched to the Mini Secretariat. 

Then a rally was held at the Mini Secretariat which was addressed by the leaders of various organizations including AITUC, CITU, CTU and INTUC. The speakers condemned the Modi government's repression on the farmers at the Shambhu border and throwing of tear gas shells with Drones and firing with plastic pellets on the peacefully protesting farmers. 

Several of them have been injured as a result of the repression. This is against the constitutional provisions of our country which guarantees the freedom of expression and protest to all the citizens. The government has completely turned away from fulfilling the commitment on the farmers demands after the Prime Minister Narendera Modi withdrew three Agriculture Bills. The speakers at the rallies blamed that laws are being made constantly against the workers and the government is all out to serve the corporate sector. 

Whereas the poor people are being denied right to livelihood and jobs and are suffering under the exorbitant price rise, the corporate sector has been given ample concessions in the form of tax reduction declaring their unpaid loans as NPA and these are being waived off. Against this, workers, employees, farmers, students, youth, women, small and medium entrepreneurs, small shopkeepers and others have sounded the bugle. 

Today's action in which the farmers have observed Band in every village and the workers have gone on strike across the country is a reflection of the growing resentment among the people. Having failed on all fronts the government is resorting to dangerous game of splitting the society on communal lines and engineering communal riots to garner votes.  The Supreme Court verdict on Electoral Bonds has completely exposed that this is the most corrupt government of the on-going period.

The protesters emphasized the following major demands, among others:

•Provide statutory guarantee and purchase guarantee as per the formula of MSP @ C2+50% for farmers produce.

•Stop privatization of public sector enterprises.

• Withdraw four labor codes that are anti-worker and anti-employee.

• Withdraw the provisional recruitment of Agni Veers under the Agnipath scheme in the army and make permanent recruitment as before.

• Reject the pro-rich and anti-people New Education Policy 2020.

• Repeal the new pension scheme, restore the old pension scheme.

• Bring all group construction workers under ESI scheme for free health facility.

 • Withdraw the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2022. Don't install a pre-paid smart meter.

• Make minimum wage for workers Rs.26000/- per month.

•Guarantee 200 days of work per year and Rs.700/- per diem under MGNREGA.

• Guarantee food security and expand the public distribution system.

• Make a memorial at Singhu border for all martyred farmers, give compensation and rehabilitate their families, withdraw all pending cases.

• Sack and prosecute Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra Tenny.

The protestors said that it has become very important to prevent the Modi-led BJP government from coming back to power in 2024, otherwise the policy of not only the rights of farmers, anti-labourers and the corporate sector will continue in this country but also the name of religion in the society. By creating divisions, the unity, integrity and constitution of our country will be threatened. 

Those who addressed the rally include Comrades Bant Singh Brar – President AITUC Punjab, Mangat Ram Pasla – Vice President CTU, Subhash Rani, D P Maur, M S Bhatia, Vijay Kumar, Jagdish Chand, Joginder Ram, Sukhwinder Singh Lotey, Chamkaur Singh, Dr Rajinder Pal Singh Aulukh, Dr Arun Mitra and others.

Sunday, January 28, 2024

'Countrywide Labor Protest Day' on 8 February

Sunday: 28th January 2024 at 5:29 PM

All the existing legal labor rights should be strictly implemented


Ludhiana
28th January 2024: (Media Link Ravinder//The Comrade Screen Desk)::

‘Mazdoor Adhikar Sangharsh Abhiyan’ (MASA), a joint platform of various labor organizations, has called for celebrating February 8 as country-wide Labor Resistance Day. On this day, protests will be held by different organizations of workers in different parts of the country against the Indian and state governments regarding the problems and demands of the workers.

Supporting this call, 'Karkhana Mazdoor Union', 'Textile-Hosiery Workers Union' and rural laborers' organization 'Pendu Mazdoor Union (Mashal)' will hold a protest at Samrala Chowk in Ludhiana. 

This decision was taken today in the meeting of representatives of the three organizations. Issuing a press statement, Lakhwinder, President of Factory Workers Union, Punjab, said that this protest is against the exploitation of workers by domestic and foreign capitalists, the crushing of people's rights by Indian and state governments and the incitement of hatred in the name of religion by fascist forces. Will be opposed. There will be a demand from the Indian and state governments that the monthly minimum wage should be Rs 26000 for eight hours of work. This should be done, equal pay should be implemented for women as men for equal work, Modi government should immediately withdraw the new four anti-worker labor laws/codes. 

All anti-worker amendments made in labor laws by the state governments should also be cancelled. The Bhagwant government of Punjab should cancel the notification to increase overtime hours, all the existing legal labor rights should be strictly implemented, back-breaking inflation should be stopped, all direct and indirect taxes imposed on the working people should be canceled, according to the increasing income of the capitalists. 

Taxes should be imposed, all the facilities related to ration, health, education, bus-train travel, accommodation and other basic needs should be provided free of cost to the laborers by the government, communal-fascist attacks on democratic rights should stop, spreading hatred based on religion and caste should stop. yes. Labor organizations have appealed to maximum number of workers to participate in these protests.

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