However, not all friends are willing to pardon the SP’s sudden U-turn on the nuclear deal citing “national interest”. The SP’s allies in the UNPA (United National Progressive Alliance), INLD chief Om Prakash Chautala and the AGP’s Brindaban Goswami, today criticised the turnaround.

“I am very surprised and sad at the stance taken by Mulayam Singh Yadav on the nuclear deal issue. The INLD will continue to oppose the nuclear deal,” said Chautala. He added that the SP’s stance did not affect the UNPA. “The remaining UNPA stays united like a solid rock.”

Goswami added that his party could not side with anyone having truck with the Congress. Incidentally, both the AGP and INLD were earlier a part of the opposition NDA.

If UNPA constituents are worried about regional political compulsions, the SP’s move is also guided by the rising tide of BSP supremo Mayawati. “It is desirable for both the Congress and SP to have some kind of seat adjustment to defeat the communal forces in the country,” AICC general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Digvijay Singh said today.

SP leader Amar Singh was, however, not quite amused by UNPA constituents attacking the party for charting a separate course on the nuclear deal issue.

“I do not know why INLD leader Chautala, for whom I have great respect, is criticising us. Terming our position as opportunism is not in good taste,” Amar Singh said.