Mumbai: Over twenty-eight opposition parties in India have unified their efforts to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming 2024 national elections. This strategic alliance, aiming to thwart a potential third consecutive win for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is named the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).
The coalition made an official announcement on a recent Friday, declaring their intention to devise seat-sharing strategies across various states. This collaborative move ensures they don’t inadvertently divide the votes, which could potentially favor the BJP. The official statement from the INDIA bloc mentioned their united front, emphasizing the principles of collaboration and mutual compromise in their approach.
The general elections in India are anticipated to take place around May. The gathering in Mumbai, the nation’s financial and cinematic hub, witnessed prominent leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, Arvind Kejriwal, Sitaram Yechury, and Lalu Prasad Yadav. They deliberated on strategically placing a singular candidate against the BJP’s nominee in every electoral district.
This opposition alliance, formed in June, is putting forth a concerted challenge against Modi’s administration. It highlights concerns over its economic policies, increasing joblessness, and other pressing domestic issues, like the escalating anti-Muslim sentiments.
Bihar’s Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, emphasized their outreach strategy post the Mumbai meeting, stating they’d be touring extensively to propagate their message. He expressed confidence that their consolidated effort would guarantee a change in leadership. Furthermore, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge voiced concerns over the alleged authoritarian regime of the BJP, asserting that it affected various segments of society, from intellectuals to journalists.