Cong-KC(M) talk over seat sharing ends in stalemate

Kochi: The seat-sharing talks between Kerala Congress (M) and Congress leadership held in Kochi on Sunday ahead of the Lok Sabha polls remained inconclusive as KC (M) stuck to its demand for a second seat. The Congress leadership is not ready to allot one more seat to KC(M) as it would prompt other constituents, including Muslim League, to up the ante for additional seats.
As Sunday’s talk ended without any result, there will be another meeting on the matter on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, with Kerala Congress leader P J Joseph standing firm on his decision to contest the election, chances are high for a split in the party. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Joseph reiterated his willingness to contest in the election and said that he would raise claim in the party for the same. He had already announced his readiness to contest during a press conference held at Thodupuzha last week.

Joseph also hinted that he would be in the fray at any cost. He said that he has high chance of winning the election in any of Idukki, Kottayam or Chalakkudy seats.

He added that once the UDF-Muslim League talks regarding the seats get completed, there will be a decision in the number of seats to be given to Kerala Congress. He also cited the 1984 elections when Kerala Congress and Muslim League contested in three and two seats respectively.

Even though KC(M) chairman K M Mani did not comment on Joseph’s claim, he told reporters that the party was stern in its demand for two seats and final decision will be taken soon.

At the same time, Congress leadership may hold talks with Joseph to pacify him.