Congress expected to open channels with SP over N-deal

Congress' efforts to woo the Samajwadi Party against the backdrop of the standoff with the Left parties on the nuclear deal are expected to gain momentum with the arrival of Amar Singh from US on Monday.

The Congress is expected to open channels of communication with SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav once Amar Singh lands from US.

With 39 members in Lok Sabha, the SP may play a crucial role in rescuing the government in case the UPA government goes ahead with implementing the nuclear deal and the Left parties execute their threat of withdrawing support.

However, Mulayam on Sunday maintained suspense saying the party's stand would be known on July 3 when the United National Progressive Alliance meets.

To a question, Mulayam said: "Whenever we have protested against anything, it was because it was against our principles or the interest of the people. We have always been with those parties who work for the people."