IN a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 12, M A Baby, General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has called for the immediate convening of a special session of Parliament to address ceasefire developments and related national concerns.

The letter was written in light of recent developments concerning the de-escalation of tensions and the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Baby noted that this announcement has brought a sense of relief to all sections of our nation, as well as to the peace-loving international community. However, several pressing concerns remain unaddressed – particularly regarding the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, he said.

Baby described the attack on innocent tourists on April 22 as a “heinous act” that has “deeply shaken the conscience of the nation.” He praised the overwhelming unity displayed by citizens across the country in its aftermath is a powerful and invaluable force. This solidarity must be harnessed to isolate terrorists and their supporters – both domestic and foreign, he said.

Regrettably, this moment of national unity is being undermined by virulent campaigns of hatred and jingoism, as well as the spread of misinformation by certain media outlets and elements on social media. These actions have caused significant confusion and unrest among the public, Baby noted.

 Another point of concern raised in the letter was the announcement by the president of the United States regarding the ceasefire, which was made prior to any official statement from our country’s representatives. This has raised serious concerns. It is an avowedly accepted policy of our country that we settle our disputes bilaterally, without allowing any third party intervention. Therefore, this situation requires clear and authoritative clarification from the highest levels of our government, Baby emphasised.

In the light of these issues, Baby urged the prime minister to convene a special session of Parliament, a demand already made by CPI(M) floor leaders, and to personally address the session to clarify the government's stance on the ceasefire and related national concerns.