The Congress leadership recently met and discussed the possibility of Samajwadi Party or AIADMK fileding a candidate with the support of the opposition. Thus, it is planning to postpone the elections to nullify the possibility.

 

Insiders say the move is feasible as there are precedents of this position remaining vacant for two or even three sessions.

 

Meanwhile, the presidential elections are due and the Congress will have the time to get its nominee elected to the Rashtrapthi Bhavan by offering a 'give and take' to the opposition.

 

The matter will be finalised after the Congress and UPA leaders meet key opposition leaders. Sources said finance minister Pranab Mukherjee is likely to meet BJP veteran Arun Jaitley next week, followed by interactions with regional and smaller parties.