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CPI-M asks Fernandes to quit

The Communist Party of India-Marxist today demanded immediate resignation of Union Defence Minister George Fernandes for 'affecting' Sino-Indian relations by his 'unwarranted and irresponsible statement'.

The CPI-M Politburo said Fernandes was hampering the prospects of improving relations between the two countries.

Institute of Contemporary Chinese Studies chairman and former Beijing University Professor Rajesh Saran also demanded Fernandes's removal.

''The prime minister himself should take over the defence portfolio and depute an emissary to China to reaffirm India's intention to improve bilateral relations with that country. (Atal Bihari) Vajpayee should take immediate steps towards building confidence between the peoples of the two neighbouring countries,'' Dr Saran said.

UNI

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