Cracks in INDIA bloc: As the Lok Sabha elections approach, the Opposition bloc, INDIA, faces internal strife, with the Congress unit in West Bengal criticising the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for the lack of progress in seat-sharing talks. The rift deepened as Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury took a swipe at TMC Chief Mamata Banerjee, questioning her sincerity in seat allotment negotiations.Doubts over Mamatas IntentAddressing a press conference in Murshidabad, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury expressed doubts about Mamata Banerjees intentions in offering two of West Bengals 42 Lok Sabha seats to the Congress. He dismissed Mamatas proposal, stating that the contested constituencies were already under Congress control, and the party was fully capable of retaining them.Congress Rejects TMCs OfferAdhir Ranjan Chowdhury revealed the apparent offer of two seats by the TMC and questioned the need for such generosity, asserting that the Congress does not require Mamatas pity. He emphasised the partys readiness to contest independently in the state and challenged Mamatas sincerity in seat allotment.Seat-Sharing Challenges Across INDIA BlocWhile the INDIA partners recently convened for their fourth meeting in the national capital, issues of seat-sharing in individual states, including Bihar, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Bengal, remained unresolved. The Congress faces challenges as regional parties drive hard bargains, leading to potential friction points within the Opposition alliance.Regional Leaders Assert DominanceIn Punjab, Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring declared the partys intention to compete on all 13 Lok Sabha seats, hinting at a solo fight. Meanwhile, in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut asserted the partys dominance, emphasising its historical presence and determination to contest a significant number of seats.Congress Responds to Shiv Senas ClaimsCongress leader Milind Deora responded to Sanjay Rauts remarks, stating that the Congress is the leading opposition force in Maharashtra. Deora emphasised the need for consultation with the local leadership of the state before any alliance proceeds.The internal tensions within the INDIA bloc raise questions about the unity of the Opposition as they approach the crucial Lok Sabha elections.
