Cong, NCP pre-poll alliance unlikely

A pre-poll alliance between the Congress and the NCP, partners in the ruling Democratic Front government, looks remote for the forthcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections. Both the parties have asked their district units to decide on the issue locally. The polls are scheduled on March 11.

8220;We have decided that there will be no pre-poll tie-up with our ally, the Congress, all over the State,8221; State NCP president Arun Gujarathi said. 8220;We have left it to our local leaders. Wherever our local people decide to form an alliance, the State unit will agree,8221; he added.