With the bypolls to Kairana and Noorpur constituencies in Uttar Pradesh fast approaching, the possibility for joint-opposition candidates against the BJP in the two seats is gaining momentum. The possibility for joint-opposition candidates looked brighter following the meeting between Rastriya Lok Dal (RLD) Vice President Jayant Chaudhary and SP National President Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow on Friday.
The two seats are a prestige issue for the opposition in the backdrop of possible alliance between the two major political players, the BSP and the SP in UP. Their solidarity will be put to the test in these bypolls. Bypoll to both the constituencies are scheduled for May 28.
The area, where these two seats are located, is dominated by Jats and Muslims. Hence, RLD's Chaudhary Ajit Singh qualifies to be a natural contender to consolidate Jat votes here. Meanwhile, the BSP has indicated that it would not be fielding any candidate in these bypolls. The Congress too, instead of fielding a candidate, has decided to support a consensus candidate.
As more details are coming out, it is speculated that the SP will field its candidate in Kairana and the RLD will transfer its traditional votes to the SP. On similar lines, the RLD will field its candidate in Noorpur and the SP will transfer its votes to RLD candidate. According to RLD spokesperson Anil Dubey, a clearer picture would emerge in a day or two.
However, a final decision will be taken only after consultations with BSP chief Mayawati. The names of the candidates will be formally declared after consulting Mayawati. Both Akhilesh and Jayant will meet her and apprise her of the political equations there.
Kairana Lok Sabha seat had become vacant after the death of BJP MP Hukum Singh. The Noorpur assembly seat was left vacant after the death of Lokendra Singh, who died in a road mishap.
According to sources from both the SP and the RLD, the meeting between Akhilesh Yadav and Jayant Chaudhary was successful. It is expected that the RLD would also join the BSP-SP alliance soon after the bypolls, ahead of the 2019 general elections.