Senior Congress leader and Defence Minister A K Antony has hinted at the possibility of the formation of a fresh secular front to keep the BJP out of power.
"This time we will get a better number in the Parliament, still we may not be able to form a government, but to avoid a disaster, any party who are contesting against Congress and UPA and are ready to share or join us on secularism grounds we will join hands to avoid the disaster," Antony said while addressing a rally here yesterday.
Meanwhile, reacting to Antony's statement, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Meenakshi Lekhi said: "If you want a secular front than Congress is out, being the most communal party."
The general elections will be held in nine stages staggered between April 7 and May 12.
Results of the mammoth exercise are due on May 16.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app