New Delhi: Congress, which failed to win bypolls in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, on Wednesday sought to downplay the poll verdict in these states by focusing on its victories in West Bengal and Orissa.

"We accept the verdict of the people in which we have won in Orissa and West Bengal," party spokesman Shakil Ahmed said, adding, the parties which have won in other states also do not have much cause for celebration.

In the bypolls, UP's ruling BSP covered itself with glory while the BJP retained the Betul Parliamentary seat in Madhya Pradesh.

In two other assembly bypolls to naxal-infested Laxmipur constituency in Orissa and Kharba in West Bengal, the Congress posted victories.

Source : PTI