The ambitious plan of 26 opposition parties to unite under the banner of the INDIA Alliance to challenge the BJP-led NDA in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections appears to be disintegrating. Formed in 2023 with Congress at the helm, the alliance aimed to present a united front against the ruling BJP coalition. However, recent developments indicate growing discord among its partners.
SP Exits Alliance in Maharashtra
The friction became evident during the Maharashtra elections, where the Samajwadi Party (SP) declared its separation from the opposition’s Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). SP’s Maharashtra state president declared the split, causing political ripples. This decision follows broader dissatisfaction within the INDIA Alliance, especially concerning the party’s perceived marginalization.
Row over LS Seating Arrangements
A point of contention within the alliance revolves around the seating arrangement in the Lok Sabha. The new seating chart of the 18th Lok Sabha allocated a second-row seat to Ayodhya MP Awadhesh Prasad, leading to SP’s dissatisfaction. Traditionally, SP held two seats in the first row, but Congress reduced this to one, reserving the front row only for party chief Akhilesh Yadav. This apparent demotion has intensified the rift between SP and Congress.
Mamata Ready to Lead
Amid these tensions, Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee added fuel to the fire by expressing her wish to lead the INDIA Alliance. Following the MVA’s defeat in Maharashtra, Mamata said she was ready to lead the alliance from Bengal if needed. Her remarks suggest a "do-or-die" approach—either she takes the reins of the alliance or considers quitting it. Mamata further underscored her pivotal role in forming the INDIA Alliance, implying her leadership is essential for its survival.
AAP-Cong Rift Widens
Adding to the alliance’s woes, the relationship between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress has hit a new low. In Delhi, the two parties are engaged in a bitter war of words, with Congress leader Ajay Maken labeling AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal as "anti-national." This accusation has escalated tensions, prompting AAP leader Sanjay Singh to demand action against Maken. Singh has warned of discussing Congress's expulsion from the INDIA Alliance if the issue remains unresolved. Both parties are now contesting elections separately in Delhi, highlighting their growing divergence.
Member parties have increasingly distanced themselves
The INDIA Alliance's troubles have been brewing since its inception. Despite being a coalition of 26 major parties, the alliance failed to make a significant impact during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The recent Maharashtra assembly elections further exposed its vulnerabilities, with the alliance suffering a decisive defeat. Subsequently, member parties have increasingly distanced themselves, casting doubts on the alliance's viability.
For instance, in the recent by-elections for nine assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party sidelined Congress by fielding its candidates across all constituencies. This independent approach underscores the diminishing cooperation among alliance members.
What Lies Ahead for the INDIA Alliance?
The cracks in the INDIA Alliance raise serious questions about its future. With key partners like SP, AAP, and TMC expressing discontent and even threatening to leave, the alliance faces an existential crisis. Whether the disintegration can be halted or will accelerate remains to be seen. The opposition's ability to regroup and present a united front will significantly influence the political landscape in the days to come.
Prakash Kumar Pandey
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