Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s willingness to lead the INDIA opposition bloc has sparked diverse reactions among alliance leaders. While some back her, others advocate a consensus-driven decision-making approach.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has expressed strong support for Banerjee’s leadership bid, stating that objections from the Congress party should not hinder her candidacy. “Mamta Banerjee should be allowed to head the INDIA bloc,” Yadav asserted, dismissing Congress’ concerns as inconsequential.
Similarly, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav echoed his father’s sentiments, stating that he had no objections to Banerjee or any senior leader leading the alliance. However, he emphasized the need for a unanimous decision within the bloc.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also acknowledged Banerjee’s leadership offer, praising her past contributions and her role in combating misinformation in West Bengal. “If given the responsibility to lead the bloc, we are confident she will handle it well and strengthen the INDIA alliance,” Chaturvedi said.
Mamata Banerjee herself has voiced dissatisfaction with the functioning of the opposition bloc, suggesting she is ready to take charge. “I formed the INDIA bloc. If those leading it can’t manage, what can I do?
She emphasized in an interview with News 18 Bangla that leaders must take everyone along.
Banerjee also highlighted her ability to balance the dual roles of West Bengal Chief Minister and INDIA bloc leader.
While some, like Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Supriya Sule, welcomed Banerjee’s increased role in the opposition alliance, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut maintained that no one was challenging Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s leadership.
Raut emphasized considering any new ideas to strengthen the alliance.
Meanwhile, BJP general secretary Tarun Chugh accused the INDIA bloc of lacking coherence and claimed Rahul Gandhi’s leadership weighed it down.
The debate over leadership highlights the challenges the INDIA bloc faces as it strives to project unity against the ruling BJP.