Hyderabad: Talks between the TDP and the BJP for a poll alliance in Andhra Pradesh are understood to have hit a fresh roadblock. The two parties, who were earlier believed to be on the verge of reaching an understanding, yesterday resumed talks to iron out the differences over seat-sharing. BJP leader Prakash Javadekar, who is camping in the state for three days, cancelled his scheduled press conference in the evening amid reports that the two parties failed to make any headway. Javadekar resumed talks with Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Sujana Chowdary here to reach an understanding for the ensuing elections to state assembly and Lok Sabha. The talks resumed after he returned from Vijayawada, where he consulted BJP leaders from Seemandhra. According to sources in TDP, the BJP’s demand for a higher number of seats in Telangana is proving a hurdle in making the headway.
Trinamool releases manifesto
Kolkata: Focusing on roti kapda aur makaan (food, dress and shelter), the Trinamool Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, promising electoral reforms, transparency and a corruption-free India. The document said if voted to power, the Trinamool would pursue a policy of the government not acquiring land, and ensure free medical services for senior citizens. Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee, who officially unveiled the document, attacked the Congress, the BJP and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) saying they have “lost their credibility”. She underscored the urgent need for electoral reforms, and called for state funding of elections as a part of the fight against graft.
IANS
