Akhilesh Yadav hints at successful seat-sharing alliance with Congress
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Lucknow: Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has indicated progress in the seat-sharing discussions with the Congress for Uttar Pradesh's 80 Lok Sabha seats.
Sources suggest that the Samajwadi Party is set to contest 62 seats, leaving 17 for the Congress and one for Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party. Despite a few points of contention, a final announcement is expected soon.
In response to questions about the alliance, Akhilesh Yadav stated, "All is well that ends well. Yes, there will be an alliance... there is no conflict. Everything will be clear soon."
Congress' General Secretary, Avinash Pandey, said, "We are awaiting confirmation from Congress President (Mallikarjun Kharge)... we agreed to change some seats in the interest of the alliance."
The seat-sharing arrangement involves the Congress contesting 17 seats, with Moradabad conceded to the Samajwadi Party. Additionally, there might be an exchange of Sitapur and Hathras, with discussions around Bulandshahr or Mathura in exchange for Shravasti. The final announcement is anticipated by 5 pm or Thursday at the latest.
The talks between Samajwadi Party and Congress have been closely observed, reflecting the INDIA bloc's efforts to present a united front against the BJP. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reportedly played a pivotal role in resolving the negotiations, working out details, and securing approval from Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi.
Sonia Gandhi, with her strategic insights, also contributed to steering the discussions. Recognising some demands as "unreasonable" and "unrealistic" given the Congress' recent electoral performances, she assisted state leaders in reaching a consensus.
The bloc, formed in June last year, faced challenges in maintaining cohesion, with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's exit and the potential departure of Jayant Chaudhary's Rashtriya Lok Dal.
Despite internal challenges, the recent mayoral election win in Chandigarh marked a positive development for the INDIA bloc. However, uncertainties persist in Bengal, where Trinamool Congress plans to contest independently, and Punjab, where seat-sharing discussions with the AAP remain inconclusive.