Congress Leaders Press Akhilesh Yadav for Quick Seat-Sharing Deal

Congress leaders in Uttar Pradesh are stepping up efforts to push Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav toward an early conclusion of seat-sharing talks, sources indicated. Among those applying pressure are the party's UP in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam and leader Imran Masood.

The discussions, which have stretched across several rounds, have moved beyond the arithmetic of seat distribution to touch on questions of personality and working chemistry between the two sides. According to sources, the Congress contingent has been persistent in its demand for a swift agreement, seeking to lock in a deal before the window for negotiations narrows further.

The urgency from the Congress side reflects its desire to avoid a prolonged bargaining process that could delay joint preparations. However, the talks remain a work in progress, with no final formula announced yet.

Both parties have been negotiating the contours of an alliance that would see them contest the upcoming electoral battle together. The involvement of senior figures like Gautam and Masood underscores the seriousness with which the Congress is approaching the parleys.

Sources suggest that while the Congress is keen to wrap up the arrangement quickly, the Samajwadi Party has been weighing its options carefully. The coming days are expected to be crucial in determining whether the two sides can bridge their differences and arrive at a mutually acceptable seat-sharing pact.