The gauntlet thrown down by the Left Front to the ruling coalition UPA on the 123 Agreement with the US on the contentious Nuclear Pact has been unbelievably picked up by the usually hesitant Prime Minister M Dr. Man Mohan Singh (The Left weighing its options, FPJ Edit) much to the chagrin of the Left Front who have been hoodwinking the UPA Alliance at the drop of a hat (or Sickle?). It appears that the Left Front was least prepared for a show-down with the Government on this issue. The Left posture was rather a part of the usual political noises it has been making in its vain attempt and desperation to retain its hard-core cadres ever since it had lent support to the secular Congress party. Dr. Singh’s stern reaction has, however, caused unfathomable embarrassment to the Left Front who does not spare any opportunity to indulge in US-Bashing.
But this time the PM has strongly worded his statement and shown the Left Front its political place in running the affairs of the nation. This must be an indirect but well-calculated move to control the left menace. This must help the PM in achieving a modicum reduction of the nuisance value of the left and consolidate his position. This will also call the bluff of the Left Front as to whose writ runs as far as the governance is concerned.
This single move of Dr. Singh has overnight elevated his political and personal stature. The Left Front is now finding it difficult to fight the damage control.
