Left edgy as big two go on ally hunt

The open season declared on the Third Front by the Congress and the BJP has the Left worried about the fate of the formation.

Sources in the CPI(M) said the desertion of the TRS and the imminent desertion of the Janata Dal (S) has indicated that this is only the start of the poaching season, with the Left in the difficult position of having to preside over the formation.

“Even before the numbers are out, poaching has ensued. We are in a difficult position. If we do well, we will have to deal with poaching, and if we don’t, the raison de etre of the Front will be over,” a senior Left leader said.

Rumours that the BJP and the Congress have been in touch with BSP chief Mayawati and the BJP with TDP president Chandrababu Naidu have been denied vehemently but have nonetheless shaken the Left. “It is a strange situation where everyone is waiting for the result to gauge whether the Front will stay alive or not,” he said.

While politburo member Sitaram Yechury reiterated the party’s commitment to forming a non-Congress, non-BJP government, the fact that the Third Front will be laid siege to is inescapable.

Most CPI(M) allies have confirmed they will attend the Third Front meet on May 18. However, only the TDP and the BJD have been able to inspire confidence. Sources say CPI(M) general secretary Prakash Karat has been in constant touch with Naidu, with whom he has forged some comfort level.