Genetically modified crops; wide discussion transcending usual front followers should be welcome

CPM politburo member S.Ramachandran Pillai has shot the first salvo, rather quite unexpected revelation from the leftist camp.

Lately, another strong PB member Sitaram Yechury has offered his support to SRP’s assertion. Other middle level and a little lower level functionaries are taking to safe attitudinal postures, in accordance with ideological postures, but incorporating the latest U-turn by the party honchos.

No doubt, SRP’s argument has been well-thought out by the party’s decision makers. Perhaps, they had not taken its strong ally, the CPI whose leaders have taken blanket opposition to the GM crops.

In fact, SRP had wanted the technology to be pursued by government and related entities so that the innovations would not be a monopoly of multi-national companies like Monsanto. For no one can oppose research in scientific realm, particularly biotechnological innovations.

The principles of selective exposure and selective perception and retention as proposed in mass communication theories are being caught up with in the media sector in Kerala regarding the new attitude of the CPM. Is it a new attitude or a considered view to oppose only the monopolisation of MNCs?

Those who are supporting GM crops are exposing themselves to SRP’s views as direct support and those who are opposing it are also trying to cling on to their considered views on GM crops, saying SRP has been only opposing private monopolisation of GM crops.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton and brinjal are only examples of genetically modified crops. Other things would follow. Many may not have absorbed the fact that Bt is a bacterium that is being reacted with organic bacteria of the native crops to produce a gene that would be better suited for increased productivity, immunity from diseases and propensity to withstand various aspects of harsh weather, soil and water conditions etc.

Great discussions should follow, incorporating views of independent scientists and intellectuals.