CPI national general secretary AB Bardhan today said the Left parties, along with other friendly parties, would launch a nationwide stir against the "mining mafia" that is posing a threat to democracy in the country.

"The mining mafia led by Karnataka tourism minister Gali Janardhana Reddy has become a big threat to democracy in the country. The mining mafia is looting precious national wealth," Bardhan said.

The Left parties, together with other friendly parties would launch a nation-wide agitation to fight the mining mafia, he added.

Bardhan called on Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu at the latter’s residence here today.

The two leaders discussed issues related to national and state politics. "We are old friends. Whenever we meet we discuss current politics and fights we have to undertake together," Bardhan said about his meeting with Naidu.

Former Union minister K Yerran Naidu, TDP politburo member Yanamala Ramakrishnudu and other senior leaders were also present on the occasion.