today

TDP-CPM stand off over seats intensifies

The newly-formed "grand alliance" of TDP, Left and TRS in Andhra Pradesh, which appeared to be floundering following a stand-off between the TDP and the CPM over seat-sharing of assembly constituencies, on Sunday went further into crisis. With TDP refusing to give more than 15 seats to CPM, the latter has threatened to go it alone in 49 assembly constituencies.

IMO: Probably as well for the left if it fragments, more chance for worthwhile reconsolidation after it loses present elections.

As for the left in Bengal, Mamata Banerjee said that her party would convert North Bengal into Switzerland if it came to power. Criticising the state government, she alleged that nothing had been done to better the tourism sector and that false promises had been given in the name of industrialisation. "Many tea workers are suffering as a number of tea gardens are lying closed. Work for the much-awaited bridge at Adabari in Dinhata is yet to start. If we come to power we will build up a new North Bengal. Setting up a separate secretariat for North Bengal is no separatist act and it is possible to do it within the framework of the state government machinery," she said.

IMO: Vote Trinamool Congress in Bengal, out Marxists.