2019 polls throw a new role for Naidu

New Delhi: TDP president and AP Chief Minister Naidu has taken up on his shoulders playing the role of UPA convenor uniting all Opposition parties.

He met UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi for the first time for one on one talks on Sunday. Both the leaders discussed the political situation for about 45 minutes.

With other leaders, including NCP leader Sharad Pawar too trying to assume the role of UPA convener, Naidu lost no time after elections in Andhra Pradesh and rushed to Delhi.

He visited the Election Commission office and registered strong objection to the re-polling ordered in a few seats in AP. Immediately after stepping out of the EC office, the TDP chief began his political tour.

In TDP's history, the party allied with the Congress for the first time, as Naidu was on a mission to form an anti-Modi government at the Centre.

A former ally of the BJP, Naidu broke ties after the Modi government refused to grant the special category status to Andhra Pradesh after its bifurcation.

Continuing his efforts to stitch the unity, Naidu held two meetings with Rahul Gandhi in 24 hours.

Their discussions focussed mostly on the strategy ahead and how to swiftly stake claim to form government once they have numbers.

He has been in constant touch with Mamata Banerjee and Sharad Yadav over phone. Leaders of all Opposition parties are likely to meet on Tuesday.

Naidu is said to have explained to Sonia Gandhi about the likely results of each of the 21 Opposition parties and how they can form the government if they can unite before the results are announced.

Earlier Naidu visited Lucknow and met with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. A meeting that lasted for about an hour, the duo discussed poll violence and "partial approach" of the EC.

He also said his party would support any effort of the Opposition aimed at keeping Modi out. Sources in SP said Akhilesh confirmed his attendance for the meeting in Delhi scheduled next week.

Later the TDP chief had a meeting with BSP supremo Mayawati. Sources privy to the meeting said that not only did Mayawati agree that all parties need to come together to keep the BJP away, she also confirmed to Naidu that she would be present for an Opposition gathering in Delhi next week. Sonia Gandhi is likely to play a key role in talking to Mayawati.

On Sunday morning, he met both Rahul Gandhi and Sharad Pawar, sharing his feedback from the UP visit. He also met Yechury again, their second meeting in 24 hours.