We don't want split in anti-CPI-M votes: Mamata

In an apparent message directed at Congress, Trinamool Congress said it does not want a split in anti-CPI(M) votes in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections.

In an apparent message directed at Congress, Trinamool Congress on Monday said it does not want a split in anti-CPI(M) votes in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections.

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"We don't want a split in anti-CPI-M votes. We are ready to pay any price to oust the Marxists from the state and that is why we don't retaliate even after being hit," TC chief Mamata Banerjee told a public meeting in Kolkata.

In an obvious reference to Congress, she said, "If they come, it is well and good or else we will fight. We cannot wait forever. A time comes when one has to take a decision. Our slogan will remain -- take away power from CPI-M."

Noting that CPI-M had thrived in the past 32 years in West Bengal on a 'divide and rule' policy like the British, she said "This time we will not allow CPI-M to succeed in their game.

"They even called me mad, but I don't mind, I am habituated with that. I am not in politics to get anything. I only fight for the people," she said.

Banerjee said her aim was the development of West Bengal for which removal of the CPI-M was necessary.

Refusing to join issue with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee who had criticised the TC for agitating against land acquisition for industry, she said: "I don't want to put Mukherjee on the same plane with them (CPI-M)."

Referring to CPI-M which welcomed Mukherjee's statement, she said, "there is no use in rejoicing."