As the debate continues within the opposition’s INDIA alliance over leadership, Mamata Banerjee’s offer to take charge has sparked more reactions from political leaders. While some have expressed support for her, others emphasize the importance of consensus in deciding the leader.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav remains a staunch advocate for Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. He asserted that the leadership of the INDIA bloc should be given to her, dismissing any objections from Congress. “Mamata Banerjee should lead the INDIA bloc,” Lalu Prasad stated, further emphasizing that the Congress’ opposition to this decision should not be taken seriously.
Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu Prasad’s son and senior RJD leader, had earlier expressed that while there should be no objection to any senior leader, including Mamata Banerjee, leading the coalition, the final decision should be made collectively. His remarks highlighted the importance of consensus-building within the alliance.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also expressed strong support for Mamata Banerjee’s proposal, acknowledging her significant role in Indian politics. She emphasized that while the leadership decision will be made collectively, Banerjee’s offer to lead the alliance is crucial. “Her past contributions are notable, and if entrusted with leadership, she will only strengthen the INDIA alliance,” Chaturvedi stated. She further praised Banerjee’s efforts in combating misinformation in West Bengal, adding that her leadership would bolster the opposition coalition.
On Friday, Mamata Banerjee had indicated her dissatisfaction with the functioning of the opposition alliance. She stated that while she had helped form the INDIA bloc, it was now up to those at the helm to ensure its success. Banerjee also conveyed her readiness to step in as leader, saying, “If they can’t run the show, what can I do? Everyone needs to be taken along.” This sparked renewed discussions about leadership within the alliance.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut responded to these discussions by emphasizing that Rahul Gandhi’s leadership was not being questioned. “Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the alliance, and any differing opinions should be heard,” Raut said. He acknowledged that the INDIA alliance was formed collectively and that any new suggestions to strengthen the bloc should be taken into account.
Supriya Sule, an MP from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), also expressed her support for Banerjee’s greater role within the opposition alliance. Sule stated that Mamata Banerjee is an integral part of the INDIA alliance, and her taking on a leadership role would be beneficial to the bloc.
The BJP, however, has been quick to criticize the opposition alliance. BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh attacked the INDIA bloc for lacking cohesion and unity, claiming that the alliance has been burdened by Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. He pointed to Mamata Banerjee’s willingness to lead as evidence of the disarray within the opposition camp, suggesting that this indicates internal divisions.
As the discussions on leadership continue to unfold, it is clear that the INDIA alliance faces significant challenges in agreeing on a single leader. The outcome of this debate will have a lasting impact on the future of the opposition’s unity ahead of the upcoming elections.