Post ‘cycle deal’: SP, Cong, RLD set to ally in UP today

Tribune News Service

New Delhi/Lucknow, Jan 16

With Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav wresting the cycle symbol from his father Mulayam Singh Yadav, the Congress, RLD and Akhilesh-led SP faction is likely to announce its alliance for state elections tomorrow with Akhilesh as its face.

Like the UP Chief Minister’s camp, the Congress too was waiting with anxiety for the EC orders, which came today paving the way for what Congress leaders described as a “healthy and winnable alliance”.

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“In the wake of cycle, the original SP symbol going to Akhilesh Yadav, the feared confusion among state voters will no longer be there. The Congress, SP alliance can now be a formidable force in the state,” a Congress leader said, indicating possibilities of announcement of a formal tie-up soon.

It is learnt that Akhilesh and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi have discussed the alliance broadly and AICC general secretary for UP Ghulam Nabi Azad was fine-tuning the modalities. The Congress yesterday formed a screening panel for UP headed by Rajasthan ex-CM Ashok Gehlot to finalise the ticket. Sources said the party was ready with candidates on all seats to address any adverse eventualities that may have harmed the crafting of SP-Congress alliance. “We are ready with candidates on all seats. But if there is a tie up, we will sit and discuss the seat arrangements,” a Congress insider said, adding that Gandhi, Akhilesh and Jayant Chaudhary could build a potential momentum in favour of the alliance.