In the latest development from the fourth meeting of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc on December 19, the 28-party opposition coalition has set the stage for a joint campaign against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) scheduled to kick off in January.
During the meeting held in the national capital, critical issues were deliberated upon, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress proposed Mallikarjun Kharge as the Prime Ministerial candidate for the opposition bloc. This suggestion gained support from Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal. However, Kharge, while appreciating the endorsement, urged all 28 parties to focus on winning seats across the country first, deferring the decision on the Prime Ministerial candidate until after the elections.
Acknowledging demands for finalizing the seat-sharing agreement, Kharge announced the formation of a five-member National Alliance Committee, with Mukul Wasnik as its chairman, and including former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Mohan Prakash, and Salman Khurshid as members.
During the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on December 21, Rahul Gandhi emphasized providing space to regional parties and recognized the urgency of concluding seat-sharing talks in states such as West Bengal, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. The Congress aims to expedite these discussions, aiming for completion by December 31, although insiders estimate a three-week timeline for resolution.
Navigating delicate alliances, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh with the Samajwadi Party, Punjab and Delhi with the AAP, and West Bengal with the Trinamool Congress and Left parties, the Congress is positioning itself as a big brother, ready to accommodate and collaborate for a united opposition front.
The INDIA bloc plans to conduct eight to ten joint public meetings in crucial states to project a message of unity in preparation for the anticipated high-stakes battle in 2024. Rahul Gandhi has engaged with key leaders, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, to solidify the alliance's strength.
Following the telephonic conversation between Rahul Gandhi and Nitish Kumar, the Congress clarified its stance on the proposal of Mallikarjun Kharge as the prime ministerial face, emphasizing the need for unity among opposition parties in the upcoming polls. The INDIA bloc, united in its purpose, aims to bring together all opposition parties for the impending electoral contest.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | Kharge Takes Indirect Jibe at Dhankhar During CWC, Urges Members to Consider BJY 2.0
ALSO READ | CWC Condemns Suspension of 143 MPs, Says Democracy 'Under Assault'
