M A I N   N E W S

Chautala hints at joint list
From Jatinder Sharma

ROHTAK, Jan 25 — The INLD and the BJP appear to have reached an agreement on sharing of seats in the ensuing Assembly elections. This was indicated by the INLD supremo and Chief Minister, Mr Om Prakash Chautala, while addressing the State-level workers’ meeting and newsmen here today.

Mr Chautala said the list of INLD candidates would not be announced till the finalisation of the seat-sharing formula with the BJP. “It is possible that the BJP and INLD may issue joint list of their candidates” he said dropping a broad hint that the two parties have almost reached an agreement on sharing of seats.

He said that the names of the candidates would also be announced before the process for filing nominations begins. The two parties would also clinch the agreement by then, he added.

The INLD supremo ruled out any alliance with the Akali Dal (Badal) in the ensuing Vidhan Sabha elections. If, however, the Akali Dal (Badal) leaders suggested name of any good candidate, he would be accommodated. Such a candidate would contest on the INLD symbol.

Mr Chautala said though he was addressing meetings in the State almost daily, the election campaign would be launched jointly by the INLD and BJP leaders. “However, I will campaign in all the 90 Assembly segments”.

He has discussions with the State BJP leaders at Delhi on Monday night on sharing of seats between the two parties. The discussions were on the seat to seat basis, he said.

Earlier, addressing the members of the State executive, district and constituency presidents, MPs and former MLAs, the INLD supremo stressed that today was an era of coalition governments. “If you are to retain power, you will have to make certain sacrifices also”, he told party leaders.

Mr Chautala told his party that the seat sharing agreement with the BJP would be honourable and dignified.

Today’s meeting appeared to have been convened to prepare the rank and file for the proposed seat sharing agreement. Though it would not be possible to give tickets, to all aspirants, they would be adjusted suitably according to status of the individual.

He said Opposition parties might criticise the INLD government on hike in prices of diesel and sharp fall in the prices of paddy. Both these issues, he told them, related to the Centre. The INLD had been registering its protest on them.