E-Paper
2G spectrum allocation case verdict: Stakes high in political quarters
The verdict in the 2G spectrum allocation case comes at a time when both the Congress and the BJP are eyeing possible allies among the Dravidian parties.
As the special CBI court is all set to pronounce its verdict on the 2G spectrum allocation case, stakes would be high in political establishments, especially in Tamil Nadu.
The cases, which involve a notional loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore as mentioned by the CAG, had grabbed the headlines for the alleged involvement of former cabinet minister A Raja, DMK MP K Kanimozhi, among others.
The DMK, which is the principal Opposition party in Tamil Nadu, is on board with the Congress to attack BJP on different issues. The DMK was also a partner of the Congress in the UPA government.
The verdict comes at a time when both the Congress and the BJP are eyeing possible allies among the Dravidian parties. The BJP—which enjoys growing proximity with the AIADMK after the sudden death of J Jayalalithaa, hopes to get a shot in arm after the verdict. It can also hope to further demoralise the Opposition bench and create a rift over issues of corruption when a united Opposition is gunning for the government over issues like GST and demonetisation.
The Congress, which had maintained that none of its own leaders are involved, may hope that the verdict would have no bearing on its future possible roadmap when it may be scouting for allies in different states with an eye on the 2019 Lok Sabha poll.
