Serious differences have cropped up in the Congress over the issue of formation of  government in the State.

Union Minister of State for Planning M V Rajashekharan’s statement here that he favoured formation of a government to end political instability in the State is said to have sparked differences among top party leaders.

At a high-level meeting held by Union Minister Oscar Fernandes on Friday evening, some leaders are said to have lambasted Mr Rajasekharan for favouring a coalition government.

The meeting was attended by Mr Mallikarjun Kharge, Mr Jaffer Sharief, Mr H K Patil, Mr Siddaramaiah, Mr D K Shivakumar and others. Immediately after the meeting Mr Oscar rushed to the Raj Bhavan and met the Governor.

After meeting the Governor, the Congress leaders met at the residence of leader of Opposition N Dharam Singh to discuss the political situation.