New Delhi:
After a remarkable show in general elections 2009, the Congress now needs only 16 MPs to reach the magic figure of 272. So is it just a question of stacking the numbers, or will the party look for a combination that will ensure a stable government?
Sources have told NDTV that the party is talking to some 10 to 12 Independents. The party has already announced that three RJD MPs including Lalu will be on board.
The Congress could also approach parties like the JD(S), the RLD and constituents of Kerala's UDF.
According to sources, there is a feeling among some Congress leaders that it would be better to tie up with a single party like the Samajwadi Party rather than go with Independents.
But another section in the party feels that it would be better to go with Independents and small parties rather than tie up with the Samajwadi Party.
Meanwhile, in a bid to complete the formalities of constituting the 15th Lok Sabha and the Congress Working Committee will be meeting on Sunday.
There is also a Cabinet meeting scheduled for Monday where the PM will submit his resignation and the UPA will stake its claim to from the government.
In other big developments, the Left Front will hold meetings on Sunday, most likely to analyse their dismal performance.
Also, the Samajwadi Party will also meet today to decide their future course of action.