The Congress led a crucial meeting of the INDIA alliance, drawing attention as key players like Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena opted to stay on the sidelines.
In a strategic move to revitalize the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), the Congress orchestrated a meeting of floor leaders from 17 opposition parties, aiming to enhance coordination within Parliament. The absence of the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) raised eyebrows, signaling potential challenges for the alliance. Rahul Gandhi, representing the Congress, participated in the discussions held at 10, Rajaji Marg, according to media reports.
The meeting, a crucial step following the recent electoral setbacks for the Congress in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, focused on addressing key legislative matters, notably the Jammu and Kashmir bills and proposed amendments to criminal codes. The Jammu & Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 were passed in the Lok Sabha during the meeting.
Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress chief, expressed optimism about future INDIA meetings, emphasizing their commitment to holding the government accountable. However, the failed attempt to hastily convene a meeting earlier raised questions about the alliance's cohesion.
During the hour-long meeting, leaders from parties such as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Revolutionary Socialist Party, Communist Party of India, Janata Dal (United), Samajwadi Party, Rashtriya Lok Dal, Nationalist Congress Party, AAP, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, among others, discussed upcoming legislation. The Aam Aadmi Party and Janata Dal(United) urged swift conclusion of seat-sharing talks.
The Congress, reeling from recent electoral setbacks, aims to consolidate opposition forces for a stronger parliamentary presence. The absence of key players like the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena underscores the challenges faced by the INDIA alliance, requiring adept navigation to establish a united front against the ruling BJP.