Fissures in Opposition unity over the price rise issue are clearly visible: while the BJP-led NDA remains adamant on a vote in Parliament, the Left is looking for a face-saving forumula and the Mandalite parties are giving different signals.
The government is also determined: discussion, yes, but no vote.
It has also made it clear that a compromise is possible only if the Opposition takes part in Question Hour and allows the House to function.
If the BJP refuses to dilute its stand, the Left will find it difficult to effect floor coordination with it — fearing any such move will send the wrong signal to its political constituency in West Bengal, Kerala and Tripura. “We have ideological differences with the BJP: how can we work with it?” a Left leader asked.
They want the government to break the impasse, possibly through resolutions moved by the Chair in both Houses “expressing concern” over the rise in prices of essential commodities.
Significantly, a section of the BJP too is in favour, as it feels any prolonged deadlock will not help it politically. Ms Mayawati’s BSP has been consistently supporting the government: in the Budget Session it helped the UPA by voting against the cut motions.