Independent character of central agencies lost: Forward Bloc

Kolkata, Oct 25 (IANS) Accusing the Modi government of pursuing "anti-people policies", Forward Bloc General Secretary Debrata Biswas on Wednesday said the Centre had been appointing its "own people" in crucial institutions.

"The independent character of Reserve bank of India (RBI), the Election Commission and other agencies is at stake. In fact, they have lost their independent character," he said.

"The RSS-controlled BJP-led government is appointing its own people. The appointments at the top positions in crucial institutions like the RBI, the Election Commission and others are political appointments," he said.

Speaking on the row over the appointment of Gujarat-cadre IPS officer Rakesh Asthana as the Special Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), he said: "How was he appointed when the Central Vigilance Commission's Selection Committee rejected the proposal for the promotion of CBI Additional Director (Rakesh) Asthana for the post of Special Director?"

Biswas also criticized demonetisation and the hasty implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

"The disastrous demonetisation and speedy implementation of neo-liberal GST have created grave catastrophe in agriculture, small and medium enterprises, trade and services," he said.

"The government's policies are anti-people and pro-corporate," he said after the party's two-day Central Committee meet here.

Biswas also condemned the Centre for its stand on Rohingya refugees fleeing Myanmar following a military crackdown there.