New Delhi: Plum in the middle of the elections, here's a Sharad Pawar statement that could affect the future of the ruling alliance - the UPA.
"I honestly feel that this time also we'll require the support and blessings of the Left. That's why from the first day, I've been consistently telling my UPA partners let us keep a good rapport with the left," he said.
Almost immediately, Karat shut the door on Congress. He said, "No government is possible with the Congress. They should realise that first."
But the CPM has left several windows open for Pawar.
In such a scenario, Pawar may not only emerge as a mediator, but a contender for the PM's post. Because the Left expects the Congress to support a secular government to stop the BJP.
But Pawar's attempt to be the bridge between the Congress and other secular parties could face another spoiler; a new-found ally, Naveen Patnaik.
Everyday, the dynamics are changing. But the only thing that seems to be certain is that there would be political realignments post poll.