The two sides are working on several equations. Considering the better position of the Congress in Malda, Murshidabad and districts like North and South Dinajpur, the Trinamool is willing to adjust seats in these areas. The two parties are focusing on seat adjustment rather than a merger. The only mantra is to ensure a one-to-one contest with the Left candidates. 

The Trinamool is also banking on the Muslim population, who had voted for the party in the last panchayat polls.  “A considerable section of the Muslims is with us, be it because of the land for industry issues or Rizwanur Rehman’s case. If we now opt for the BJP, they will not remain with us. Therefore, secular Congress is a better choice,” said a senior party leader.

Trinamool leaders said unlike the panchayat polls, division of votes will emerge as an important factor in the LS elections. “We do not want anti-Left votes to be divided in the state. Even though our popularity is growing in rural Bengal, the division of vote is a critical issue we may face this time,” said a leader. Lower-ranking workers of the party have already asked Banerjee to go for a tie-up with the Congress at the grassroot level.