Kesri baiters in Congress propose Sangma formula

Senior Congress leaders are planning to issue a formal statement probably tomorrow that a “neutral” person like Sangma be given control of the Government to avoid mid-term polls. Signatures for the proposed statement were being collected today. Kesri, who appeared grim on his birthday today, is reportedly aware of this latest development in the party.

The leaders who have been floating this idea like Jitendra Prasada and Pawar are emphasising that the move is not against Kesri but simply to avoid elections. However, in practical terms the installation of Sangma as Prime Minister would be a major setback to the ageing Congress president.

The Left parties have been asked to see if they can evolve a plan whereby the DMK can be kept out without upsetting the UF parties, whose support is crucial to the plan. Those pushing Sangma’s name are hopeful that after the initial appeal by some Congress MPs, a few UF leaders will respond favourably to the proposal.

Sangma’s residence was humming with activity with a large number of Congress leaders meeting him today. He also met the President. It is felt that even the first-timer MPs of the Lok Sabha, who have been mounting pressure not to dissolve the House, would be willing to back Sangma.