West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contemplating campaigning for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, marking a potential thaw in relations between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Congress party. Priyanka Gandhi is contesting from Wayanad, a seat previously held by her brother Rahul Gandhi. Before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, tensions between the TMC and Congress ran high despite their alliance within the INDIA coalition. Mamata Banerjee had staunchly opposed joint contests with the Congress, reflecting past grievances and disagreements.What are Mamatas intentionsAccording to reports from NDTV, Mamata Banerjee expressed her willingness to campaign for Priyanka Gandhi, indicating a potential shift towards cooperation and strategic alignment within the opposition.NDTV Reports that Mamata Banerjee may Campaign for Priyanka Gandhi in Wayanad.Yesterday, P Chidambaram met Mamata Banerjee in Nabanna & discussed about it. As per reports, Mamata Banerjee wanted Priyanka Gandhi to contest in Lok Sabha Elections. pic.twitter.com/YWWVqJVKbS— The Enigmous (@_TheEnigmous) June 21, 2024Priyanka Gandhis political pathSince Priyanka Gandhis active entry into politics in 2019, speculation surrounded her potential candidacies in Amethi, Rae Bareli, and even Varanasi. However, the Congress recently confirmed her candidacy from Wayanad, a decision that solidifies Rahul Gandhis continuation as MP for Rae Bareli.Adhir Ranjan Chowdhurys influenceThe strained relations between Mamata Banerjee and the Congress were exacerbated by Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a vocal critic of the Bengal Chief Minister. His defeat in the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat and subsequent resignation as Bengal Congress unit president may have paved the way for improved relations between the TMC and the Congress.Resolving past conflictsAllegations and personal criticisms between TMC and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury further strained relations and led to electoral autonomy decisions. However, recent developments suggest that these issues are being resolved, potentially paving the way for stronger opposition unity in Parliament.The upcoming parliamentary session will witness the oppositions consolidated stance, buoyed by improved coordination among INDIA alliance members. Together, they hold significant seats in Parliament and are already demonstrating cohesion on critical issues like the opposition to new criminal laws.
