In a statement from Delhi, TMC president G.K. Moopanar explained why ``the BJP was not entitled to a reprieve on this vote of confidence merely on the ground that the AIADMK has left the coalition''. Recalling the TMC general council resolution on April 3 had vowed to oust the Government, he accused the Vajpayee Government of ``being guilty of a long train of abuses, including giving support and protection to corrupt elements''. Asserting that the Congress had set for itself a high benchmark through its Pachmarhi declaration, he hoped that ``the new formation led by the Congress will fight communalism andcorruption''.

Meanwhile, in Chennai, TMC spokesperson B.S. Gnanadesikan said the party saw no reason why it should vote with the Government for the reason that the AIADMK withdrawn its support.