INDIA Bloc Meeting: Mamata Banerjee proposes Mallikarjun Kharge as PM face, Arvind Kejriwal supports

INDIA Bloc Meeting: The fourth gathering of the 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc' concluded on Tuesday, with significant developments paving the way for the alliance's future. After the meeting, MDMK leader Vaiko revealed that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal jointly suggested the name of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge as the potential PM candidate for the INDIA bloc.

Support for Kharge's Leadership

In a bid to dispel any rumours of discord within INDIA bloc, Mamata Banerjee's proposal to make Mallikarjun Kharge the face of the alliance found strong backing from Arvind Kejriwal. The Delhi CM expressed support for Kharge's leadership, stating, "This is an opportunity to make the first Dalit Prime Minister in the country." The alliance aims to commence its 2024 election campaign from January 30, following the resolution of state-level issues.

Key Decisions Post-Meeting

After the INDIA meeting, three significant decisions were shared by Mallikarjun Kharge:

1. Election victory is priority. The selection of the PM face to be done by elected MPs.
2. State-wise parties will collaboratively decide on seat-sharing formulas.
3. A nationwide protest on December 22 against the suspension of MPs.

Escalating Political Tensions

The meeting unfolded against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the Opposition and the BJP-led central government, particularly concerning the demand for Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement on the Parliament security breach. A record-breaking 141 MPs faced suspension from Parliament, prompting criticism from leaders like Mamata Banerjee, who called it a mockery of democracy.

Seat-Sharing Discussions and Alliance Unity

Seat-sharing discussions took center stage, with Mamata Banerjee expressing optimism about reaching agreements. She stated that the majority of political parties might agree to one-to-one seat sharing, emphasising unity over discord. Responding to delays in seat-sharing within the INDIA alliance, Banerjee remarked, "It is not late. Better late than never."

Alliance's Crucial Agenda for 2024 Elections

With the Lok Sabha polls just four months away, the next INDIA bloc meeting is expected to prioritise seat-sharing discussions, crucial for Congress, especially following its electoral setbacks in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. The INDIA alliance, formed with the objective of challenging the BJP-led NDA, is gearing up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Theme for INDIA Bloc

The theme chosen by the INDIA bloc for the upcoming elections is "Judega Bharat, Jeetega India" (India will unite, India will win), reflecting the collective approach of opposition parties against the ruling BJP-led government.

The recent developments showcase a united front among key opposition leaders as they prepare to face the electoral challenges ahead.