CPI won’t do a CPM, holds back letter of support

The CPI is obviously walking a tightrope — trying to keep the state unit happy without appearing to spoil the chances of a ‘‘secular alliance’’ forming a government in Bihar. So, while the CPI in Patna has maintained equal distance from both parties — Laloo’s RJD and Ram Vilas Paswan’s LJP who are clamouring for the ‘‘secular’ tag — the party in Delhi has indicated that it is against the imposition of President’s Rule in Bihar.

‘‘To talk of President’s Rule in Bihar, soon after the people have voted, will be incorrect. The CPI will support the move for a secular government to be formed in Bihar,’’ the CPI said in statement here. Though the party did not specify which ‘‘secular formation’’ it would support, the statement clarified that it ‘‘will not support any government in Bihar of parties which are with the NDA.’’

Sources in the party said if Laloo manages to cobble up a coalition and get a green signal from the Governor, the CPI would in all likelihood vote in favour of the ‘‘secular government’’.