Congress, NCP MLAs discuss ‘UP alliance pattern’

Mumbai: After the by-poll results of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the demand for Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alliance has got a new lease of life. Senior MLAs from both parties discussed the 'UP pattern' for forming an alliance in Maharashtra. 

Although the state leadership of both parties have discussed the possibility of alliance possibility, they were unable to reach an agreement over seat-sharing. 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lost Lok Sabha by-polls in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The political understanding between Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was key to resounding victories. This has pushed MLAs of both Congresses to voice for a similar alliance in the state. 

Congress and NCP leaders had earlier held talks in Mumbai twice. Both parties principally decided that there is a need to avoid division of votes. 

But following the meetings, no breakthrough has been made. “Seat sharing is the key issue. Until that clears nothing will happen. That's why leadership is being asked to start the talks," said a four-term Congress MLA. 

When asked about the alliance process, NCP leader and former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar said, "We want an alliance. Respect for all parties and accommodation of their aspirations needs to be fulfilled. We will look into it," said Mr Pawar.