Hyderabad: As the TRS and Congress squabble over an alliance in Telangana, the Telugu Desam could walk away with the cake. The last word on the TRS-Congress deal has not been said yet, after the Telangana party refused a merger. Both parties, which are claiming credit for statehood, have publicly expressed themselves against an alliance. They have said that they want to go it alone to test their strength in Telangana.
There is some anger at TRS chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao announcing party candidates for some seats. Telangana Congress leaders have written to the high command expressing themselves against an alliance.
However, talks are going on in the backrooms to arrive at some kind of an understanding. Leaders of both parties, their public posturing notwithstanding, say privately that they hope the leaderships of both parties will strike a deal at the last minute.
Telangana Congress leaders expect votes because the party gave statehood for the region. TRS leaders stake claim to the vote citing their struggle for statehood. The BJP, which is stronger in Telangana says statehood was not possible without it.
If the TRS and Congress contest separately, observes say, the votes will split between the three parties and will benefit the TD. The BJP also stakes claim to strong support. In fact, there is a fear that if all major parties contest separately, Telangana could see a hung House.
But if the TRS and the Congress reach an alliance, they can win around 100 of the 117 Assembly seats in the region. The Congress in 2004 and the TD in 2009 won more seats than the TRS in their alliance. The TRS won 26 Assembly seats in 2004 and 10 in 2009, its Telangana credentials notwithdstanding. The TRS however has an enviable record in the byelections.
TD leaders say that the ‘Telangana sentiment’ will not work after statehood is through, and the field is open for a party that can rebuild the region.
