Congress says, the UPA government's decision on allowing Foreign Direct Investment – FDI – in the multi-brand retail sector is in the interest of the entire country. Party spokesman, Rashid Alvi told reporters in New Delhi that the BJP-led NDA in its 2004 election manifesto had also favoured the entry of 26 per cent FDI in the retail sector. He described as unfortunate the logjam between the opposition and the government on the issue.

Replying to a question, Alvi said the UPA allies are with the Congress in case of a division in Parliament on any matter. He said the opposition is free to move a no confidence motion against the government if they have required strength instead of disrupting the proceedings of Parliament.