Antony, Karat come together for Kairali

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Political bosses of the Left and Congress came on a common platform here on Friday. While it did not signal any realignment of forces, it did drive home the point that political differences will not come in the way of civility.

In the normal circumstances, defence minister A K Antony and CPM general secretary Prakash Karat would loathe to be seen together in public. Both have been engaged in a no holds barred attack against each other’s party. They buried their differences here on Friday to jointly inaugurate a building complex of CPM-controlled Kairali channel.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Antony said the gathering was confirmation that political differences should be restricted to ideological issues. “Virtually every important leader of the two parties are here this evening. It is a gratifying experience to be part of this gathering,” Mr Antony said.

The defence minister said CPM’s foray into the television business even prompted his party to enter the scene. “We were inspired by the CPM to start our own TV channel, Jai Hind,” he said.

In his address, Mr Karat said TV should avoid sensationalism. “There should be a regulator. I am not suggesting snooping by the government. What is needed is an independent regulator,” Mr Karat said.