Uttarakhand: In touch with both Congress & BJP, says BSP

DEHRADUN: Giving a new twist to the race for power in Uttarakhand, the BSP, whose three MLAs can tilt the balance, tonight said it was in touch with both the Congress and the BJP as the two rival contenders for power claimed they will form the next government. “We are in touch with both BJP and Congress,” said state BSP President Surajmal.

He maintained the party would take a decision on the issue of extending support only after consultations with BSP supremo Mayawati. Both Congress and BJP are wooing BSP and 3 independent MLAs in order to muster the majority in the 70-member assembly following a fractured electoral mandate. Regional outfit Uttarakhand Kranti Dal has one MLA.

Congress has got 32 seats and BJP 31, with both falling short of the magic figure of 36. Surajmal denied a Congress’ claim that BSP has already extended its support. “The Congress is in the habit of spreading such rumours,” he said, adding “whatever direction comes from Mayawatiji, we will follow”.

Congress said it would form the government in the hill state after the new CLP leader is chosen by the party high command. “Let the new leader be chosen by the party high command, thereafter we will form government,” said state PCC chief Yashpal Arya.