Cong says no differences with DMK

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad today said there were no differences with the DMK and expressed hope that the key ally would soon join the government.

On the differences between Congress and DMK, the Union Minister, who is also in-charge of Tamil Nadu in the Congress, told reporters that "this is pure speculation". He said DMK was holding consultations within the party and expressed hope it will be joining the government soon.

Azad said nothing should be read between the lines and reminded that during the last government formation in 2004, DMK took nine days to decide on joining the government.

"DMK is our pre-poll ally and it is definitely an important partner of Congress in government formation," Azad said.

While he did not spell out Congress' offer to the DMK, saying negotiations were still on, sources in the party say DMK has been offered three cabinet and four minister of state berths in the Union Council of Ministers.

When asked whether the party has any reservations about the names forwarded by DMK, Azad said the negotiations have not reached that stage.