Naidu, CPM twist for TRS

After bashing the Congress for its “unethical alliance” with the Left and the TRS, the Telugu Desam is set to stitch up a grand alliance with the Left, BSP and “like-minded” parties.

This would be on the lines of the “grand alliance” which comprises the UNPA, the Left and the BSP at the national level.

Disclosing this, the TD supremo, Mr N. Chandrababu Naidu, did not deny reports of an understanding with the TRS.

“We are not against Telangana (statehood). Our five-member committee is discussing the issue. Very soon we will come out with a clear action,” he told this correspondent.

The TD is preparing a carefully-phrased document to serve the interests of both parties.

A TD leader who is medi ating between Mr Naidu and the TRS said that a tieup was “just a matter of time.” The CPI(M) has just in time dropped its objection to working with pro-statehood parties.

The CPI(M) state secretary, Mr B.V. Raghavulu’s statement that he had no objection in working with the TRS has come as a big relief.

Mr Naidu said that the UNPA would project the BSP chief, Ms Mayawati, as its Prime Ministerial candidate. “It is time that a woman leader from the downtrodden sections assumes the office,” he said.

Mr Naidu camped on Sunday at Thukkuguda, the village of his ex-deputy, Mr T. Devender Goud. Mr Naidu is expected to conclude his 150-day Mee Kosam yatra on its 116th day on August 15 in Anantapur district with a public meeting.