But when it came to Mulayam and Amar Singh, there was a clear indication of support to the Government if and when the need arises. “Communalism is the biggest threat, bigger than the nuclear deal.”

Asked if that meant he was supporting the Government, he said: “Let the UPA and the Left divorce happen, where is the need for us to spell out our stand?”

It was clear from the discomfort visible from the gestures of UNPA leaders Chautala, Chandrababu Naidu, AGP’s Brindaban Goswami and Jharkhand Vikas Morcha’s Babulal Marandi that they had agreed to disagree on the issue. The UNPA decided to seek the views of “eminent scientists” on the deal.

Subsequently, in the evening Mulayam Singh Yadav, Amar Singh and Ram Gopal Yadav went to meet Kalam at his residence.

“There is speculation in the media about Amar Singh dealing with Congress, Naidu hobnobbing with the Left and me having a truck with the BJP. I must tell you, we are not going to join any other force in the country. We remain united,” announced Chautala after the meeting.