Left settles for just 2 seats to help Cong

‘‘The Congress is the main Opposition in Gujarat. In national interest, it is more important to put up a united fight against the divisive elements and the BJP’s attempt to communally polarise the electorate,’’ the Left leader said.

The Communist parties expressed apprehensions about the NCP and Samajwadi Party spoiling the show in Gujarat.

Sources said talks with the NCP failed due to ‘‘illogical demands’’ made by Pawar, who reportedly asked for five of the seven seats in Surendranagar district in Gujarat. The Congress is said to have offered three seats.

Sources added the CPI-M leaders are working on the Samajwadi Party, asking it not to settle the UP scores in Gujarat. ‘‘That is what the BJP is egging them on to do,’’ the Left leaders said.