UPA-Left endgame nears, Cong ready for snap polls

BATTLE ROYALE: All the signs of an endgame are being played out between the UPA and the Left.

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New Delhi: All the signs of an endgame are being played out between the UPA and the Left. The changing political dynamics at the Centre were quite evident at the Iftaar party hosted by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his residence.

But the power-packed party was not just about wooing the minorities. It was also a show of confidence that if the Left withdraws support, the Government is not afraid of a snap poll.

And that is exactly what Sonia Gandhi told mediapersons off-camera. “If there are elections Congress is ready for a fight,” she said.

The UPA's defiance is evident as ministers mingled with the invitees on the lawns of the Prime Minister's residence. Even Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, “Nothing is inevitable. I am not an astrologer. The Congress has always tried to make the coalition work.”

The sense of resignation in his voice was more than evident. The UPA-Left meet earlier this week had agreed only on yet another meeting.

“The discussions were held in a cordial atmosphere and the next meeting is scheduled for October 9,” External Affairs Minister Pranab had said.

In fact, Left leaders Sitaram Yechury and D Raja arrived late for the Iftaar party. They arrived soon after the Prime Minister told reporters that IAEA Secretary General Mohammed El Baradei is an honoured guest and he would obviously be welcome when he arrives in Delhi next week.

The Left apprehends that the Government is going to begin a formal dialogue with the IAEA. In fact, that is exactly what the Government is planning to do.

The Left has always said that the break-off point would come once the Government formally moves ahead.

(With inputs from Nida Hasan)