UPA's trust vote

I am thoroughly enjoying the political activities going on right now. It seems like the UPA will scrape through in the trust vote.

I have been a supporter of the deal since 2005 when it first came into public domain. And have hence been thoroughly disappointed with the stance BJP has taken.

I think the BJP also realizes that it shouldn't have played its cards in such a narrow-minded manner with just a single point agenda of opposing everything the government does. In my perception, a number of staunch BJP supporters are also thoroughly disappointed and feel betrayed by a party that fancies itself as the most patriotic.

No wonder then the BJP is so luke-warm to pulling down the government. It might face a back-lash from its own vote-bank if it is seen as actively sabotaging the deal.

So, ironically, the principal opposition party led by the Leader of the Opposition will ensure enough of their flock will abstain and ensure that Lok Sabha reposes faith in its Council of Ministers headed by Dr. Manmohan Singh.

I am ready to even believe in the theory that the Congress and the BJP had some conversation about their floor strategy in view of the Mayawati factor. What else explains the exuberant confidence of the PM that he will win the vote? Why would he call the whole session as avoidable? Did he imply that the opposition being put up was just a farce? And why would Advani dwell so long on how this session is not a distraction?

In this whole game, Dr. Manmohan Singh is the biggest winner. And if he wins, India wins.

Let's just hope I have not spoken too soon about the outcome!