Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 07 2009:
In connection with the by-election to the Yaiskul Assembly Constituency, Opposition parties have started campaigning for a straight fight with the Congress by fielding a common candidate of the non-Congress parties.
However, former Chief Minister RK Dorendra is likely to be out of the fray.
By-election to the Yaiskul Assembly Constituency has been necessitated following the death of its then sitting MLA Elangbam Kunjeshore of the Congress party, who went on to become the Deputy Chairman of State Planning Board.
Talking to The Sangai Express, BJP State unit president Dr Haobam Borbabu explained that the campaign for fielding a common candidate of the non-Congress parties and ensuring a straight fight in the by-election to defeat the Congress party has been mooted as Congress is likely to employ every possible money and muscle power to retain its seat.
Maintaining that none of the political parties in the State would be able to fight and win the election by itself in the prevailing situation, Dr Borbabu said although BJP has its own able candidate, it understands very well the desired result would not be attained without going along with other political parties.
So in consideration of the prevailing political situation as well as in the interest of the people, BJP would forgo its right and welcome a common candidate of the nonCongress parties for a straight fight with the Congress in the by-election.
The upcoming by-election is going to a real test, he said, adding that as part of the campaign, discussion has already been started with MPP president Dr Nimaichand Luwang.
MPP has responded warmly and feelers have been sent to other political parties, Dr Borbabu added.
On the other hand, sources said that CPI, which is a partner of the SPF Government, is not likely to contest in the by-election.
Though in Opposition here, NCP, which is partner of the Congress-led UPA Govt at the Centre with Ministerial post may also follow suit.