'Rs 100 crore for small politicians'

Parties keep funds aside to woo Independents, who may play a decisive role in govt formation

The quest for power has compelled political parties to make tactical moves. In the likelihood of a hung assembly, major political parties are wooing Independents for support.

Hard to ignore

Though the Congress-NCP alliance is the favourite to retain power in Maharashtra, they have kept Rs 100 crore to win the Independents' support, according to sources. "Some Congress leaders held a meeting with Independents. Though they are confident of forming the government, they want more seats, so that Congress gets more portfolios than the NCP," said a Congress party worker on the condition of anonymity.

Added Mumbai Congress President Kripashankar Singh, "The Congress-NCP will form the next government. But Independent candidates will also play an important role and everyone is looking at them." He refused to comment on funds raised by the party.

Mumbai National Congress Party President, Sachin Ahir said, "Yes, we are in touch with Independents. How-ever, we have not made any commitments as yet."

"Each candidate has his/her aspirations and those have to be fulfilled accordingly. Some get into money-making deals," he added.u00a0u00a0

BJP State General Secretary Vinod Tawde said, "Independent candidates have always played an important role and will do the same this Assembly elections too. If there are 47 portfolios, 17 will go to them and the remaining will be shared between Shiv Sena and BJP. We have had meetings with them, but will take a decision after the results." He too refused to divulge details about funds raised for them.