New Delhi, June 8
The Opposition leaders gathered in New Delhi on Monday for the crucial meeting of the INDIA bloc, seeking to project unity while confronting growing differences within the alliance.
The meeting, held at the Constitution Club, brought together several opposition parties at a time when questions are being raised about the coalition’s cohesion and future strategy.
Speaking to reporters before the discussions, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said alliance partners would collectively decide the agenda. He stressed the need to protect democratic values and work towards strengthening national unity.
Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav declined to speculate on the outcome of the meeting, saying conclusions would emerge only after discussions among the participating parties.
Communist Party of India general secretary D Raja described the gathering as important, noting that it came after a considerable gap and at a time when several issues required attention. He said concerns related to people’s livelihoods, rising economic challenges and broader national issues were expected to feature prominently in the discussions.
Raja recalled that the alliance was formed around the slogan of “BJP Hatao, Desh Bachao” and said leaders would explore ways to strengthen cooperation through mutual trust and respect. He also cautioned against actions that could deepen mistrust among alliance partners.
The meeting takes place against the backdrop of visible strains within the opposition camp.
Recently, CPI(M) general secretary M A Baby wrote to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge objecting to remarks made by Congress leaders during the Kerala election campaign. The Left party argued that accusations of collusion with the BJP had damaged opposition unity and weakened collective efforts against the ruling party.
The alliance is also meeting without the participation of the DMK, which has accused Congress of betraying its interests in Tamil Nadu. The Aam Aadmi Party, which earlier announced its exit from the INDIA bloc, is also absent from the discussions.
Despite these challenges, opposition leaders hope the meeting will help bridge differences and refocus attention on issues affecting ordinary citizens, while charting a common political course ahead.
