Kolkata: Congress leader and Jangipur candidate Pranab Mukherjee on Monday took a swipe at the Left Front saying they will take another 250 years to form a government of their own at the Centre.
"In 1952 they (Left Front) got 15 seats and that after increasing reached 60 in 2004. Now you can calculate they long they will take to reach 272. After that they should think of forming a government, becoming a prime minister. After another 250 years, they should think of that," said Pranab while addressing an election rally in Kolkata.
But Pranab's statement could embarrass the Congress if it tries to reach out to the Left as a partner after elections.
Both Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi have hinted at seeking Left Front's support after election results are out.
However, West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattachrajee rubbished Pranab's statement.
"Whatever Pranab babu says, the Left won't wait 150 years to form a government at the Centre," said Buddhadeb.
"We cannot foresee what is going to happen on May 16 (counting day). Politburo meet on 18 (May 18) will take all decisions," he added.
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