Akhilesh Yadav hints at alliance with BSP

In what can be termed as a grand revelation, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has hinted at sewing an alliance with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), if need be, in order to form the state government, and most importantly, in a bid to keep the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) out of fray.

"I cannot comment on the alliance right now. Because, I am quite sure of winning the elections with a majority. But, I have given a special name to my relation with the BSP supremo, hence, people, I know, have been speculating over the possibility of our alliance," Akhilesh told a TV Channel when asked about the possibility of the alliance.

When questioned further, Akhilesh said, "We are sure that the SP-Congress will win maximum seats in the assembly. But, we don't know about the circumstances after results. So, let's see. If it's required to form a government... Nobody would want President rule in the state and that the BJP runs it through a remote control. Nobody would want that."

During the numerous rallies and public speeches, there have been regular exchanges of 'Bua' and 'Babua' in the war of words between BSP supremo Mayawati and Akhilesh, the special relation the latter referred to.

The last two phases of the assembly polls have definitely put the incumbent Chief Minister's nerves to test. And, he surely is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the Samajwadi Party, along with the Congress, comes to power. His election rallies and speeches have also centered around keeping the BJP out of fray, as far as Uttar Pradesh is concerned, citing the presence of 'communal and divisive powers' in the state will damage the state beyond repair.

Earlier in the day, Samajwadi Party leader Ravidas Mehrotra rued the party's alliance with the Congress and said that the ruling party hasn't benefitted at all from the alliance.

This comes close on the heels of March 11, when the results of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections come out.