New Delhi: The Congress party encounters a significant setback in the Opposition INDIA blocs seat-sharing plans as key allies, AAP in Punjab, TMC in West Bengal, and Shiv Sena (UBT) in Maharashtra, announce their decision to go solo for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha polls.During a recent meeting of the Opposition INDIA bloc held in Delhi, the imperative focus was on finalising seat-sharing talks promptly for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. However, the path to consensus proves challenging for the Congress party.AAP in Punjab In Punjab, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has unequivocally declared its decision to contest the Lok Sabha polls independently, creating a roadblock for potential collaboration with the Congress.TMC in West BengalWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a campaign kickoff, firmly stated that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) would go solo in the state for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. She emphasised the TMCs capability to confront and defeat the BJP in Bengal without coalition support.Shiv Sena in MaharashtraIn Maharashtra, a critical state for the INDIA bloc, Shiv Sena (UBT) demands 23 seats, causing a deadlock in discussions. The Congress deems the demand excessive, calling for necessary adjustments among the blocs parties.AAPs independent stanceIn Punjab, AAPs inclination to contest alone was publicly expressed by state leaders. Despite a closed-door meeting between Congresss central leadership and Punjab party leaders, the sentiment for independent participation persists.Complex Maharashtra dynamicsShiv Sena (UBT) demands a significant share of Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, encountering resistance from the Congress, which deems the request excessive given the current circumstances. The demand threatens the collaborative efforts within the INDIA bloc.Similar Challenges in other statesThe Congress is likely to confront analogous hurdles in seat-sharing arrangements in other states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. The evolving dynamics within the Opposition bloc pose challenges for strategic collaborations as the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach.
