The BJP is aware that Jats in western UP are backing it and the communal polarisation in the region has already put the BJP in an advantageous situation.
The BJP is aware that Jats in western UP are backing it and the communal polarisation in the region has already put the BJP in an advantageous situation.
“Mr Ajit Singh (RLD) is himself fighting for survival and cannot be an asset for us, so what is the point of allying with him We have our own Jat leaders who hold sway over the community,” a senior BJP leader said.
The JD(U), on the other hand, is also cooling off towards the RLD. Talks of merger between the two parties have been put on hold and a senior JD(U) leader from UP said, “Mr Singh’s demands are unrealistic and growing by the day. He wants a RS seat for himself, wants his son to be the chief ministerial candidates in UP and also wants to head the new party.
Besides, he has been hobnobbing with the BJP too.”
Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar has apparently decided to put his plans of a grand alliance in UP in abeyance. While the RLD has become “too demanding”, the Apna Dal has already walked out and announced that it will remain with the BJP. The Peace Party is also said to be keeping a low profile on the issue and RJD chief Lalu Yadav was never a part of the alliance in UP.
“Mr Nitish Kumar will not do anything that could rock his boat in Bihar. He would not like to lock horns with Mr Lalu Yadav on the UP issue unless he finds a strong reason (read ally) in the state”, said a JD(U) leader in UP. RLD leaders in the state were unwilling to comment on the issue and said that they were not aware of any decision on alliances as yet.
