In a move which is expected to intensify speculation that the Samajwadi Party is contemplating allying with Congress in the upcoming UP elections, the party’s patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav and senior leader Amar Singh met with political strategist, Prashant Kishor in Delhi.
Kishor ,who has been been charged with drawing Congress’ strategy for the Assembly elections in UP, met with the SP leaders as they battle growing infighting within the party.
Samajwadi Party, Congress Eye Mahagathbandhan
Earlier, there were reports that the Samajwadi Party, Congress, JD(U), RJD, RLD and some other small parties are reportedly trying to create a ‘mahagathbandhan’ (grand alliance).
Analysts say the grand alliance, much like the one Congress was a part of in Bihar, is expected to be the best bet going forward for the Congress in a state where it currently trails the BJP, and the two leading regional parties – the SP and the BSP.
Reports suggest the move is also favoured by the Mulayam camp, which is unsure of Akhilesh’s role in the party in the run-up to the upcoming Assembly elections.
On Wednesday, Kishor reportedly met senior SP leader Shivpal Yadav at Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi's residence in Delhi. This led to speculation that an alliance was on the cards. However, speaking to CNNNews18, Tyagi rubbished talk of an alliance.
Kishorji is a good friend of mine and he often comes to my residence. It is coincidental that Shivpalji also came when Kishorji was present. The meeting was confined to the silver jubilee celebrations of the Samajwadi Party on 5 November and he came with an invitation. We did not discuss any poll strategy. We are a small party and you are free to make any conclusion.KC Tyagi
Also Read:
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Winds of Change? Congress in UP Luring Most Number of Suitors Now
(With inputs from ANI, CNNNews18 )
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