Ratan Tata once said, 'If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.' This mantra applies to both present and future politics. The 2024 Lok Sabha election results clear that while quick political victories are possible alone, long-term success relies on alliances. On Thursday, Haryana becomes the focus as Naib Singh Saini takes an oath in the presence of Prime Minister Modi and 20 NDA CMs, showcasing power, similar to INDIA Bloc’s display of unity in Jammu-Kashmir.
In light of Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections, NDA aims to flaunt its coalition strength. Invitations are extended to NDA states’ CMs and Deputy CMs for Naib Singh Saini's swearing-in in Haryana, aiming to send a robust message of unity from Chandigarh, emphasizing BJP’s alliances are tighter than Congress's. The contest in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, requires coalitions for both BJP and Congress.
18 State CMs Set to Attend in Haryana
On Thursday, it’s anticipated that all NDA CMs and Deputy CMs will attend the swearing ceremony in Haryana. Leaders from 18 NDA-governed states, including a Union Territory, will witness alongside PM Modi. Discussions on celebrating the Constitution’s anniversary and a program marking 50 years since what’s considered a threat to democracy are on the table.
While BJP endeavors to send a strong message from Haryana to states like Maharashtra, Congress’s woes post-defeat have Maharashtra allies like Shiv Sena’s Saamana editorialing on how to reverse a victory, a skill deemed learnable from Congress. Conversely, in Maharashtra, NDA is focused on showcasing unity via Mahayuti. CM Shinde presented over two years of governance achievements alongside Deputy CMs on Wednesday.
INDIA Bloc's Display of Unity in Jammu-Kashmir
NDA’s show of strength is on Thursday. Wednesday was INDIA Bloc’s turn. Omar Abdullah was sworn in as the first CM of the Union Territory Jammu-Kashmir. Key INDIA Bloc figures like Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, Prakash Karat, and Sanjay Singh attended. Akhilesh Yadav emphasized that unity is INDIA, however, in Jammu-Kashmir, the Bloc’s unity wasn’t seamless as Congress chose not to participate in Omar’s government.
Leaders gathered at Omar’s ceremony to extend INDIA Bloc’s lifespan. In the first row, Farooq Abdullah sat between Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi. Akhilesh Yadav, CPI’s D Raja, AAP’s Sanjay Singh, DMK’s Kanimozhi, NCP’s Supriya Sule, and CPM’s Prakash Karat graced the event. Akhilesh reinforced the significance of coalitions, stressing the need for Congress to accompany regional parties to claim victory.
Is Everything Right with INDIA Alliance?
Lessons will unfold with Maharashtra and Jharkhand’s results. India Bloc’s cohesion appeared frayed in Jammu Kashmir as Congress fought alongside National Conference but didn’t join the government. Congress’s head in Jammu-Kashmir, Tariq Hameed, conveyed to Aaj Tak that Congress supports from outside on moral grounds and will join governance only once full state status is achieved. Allegedly, they were discontent with just one ministerial position for six MLAs.
Experts claim Congress distances itself from Omar’s government because of the National Conference’s stance on Article 370, not wanting this as an issue in Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections. Alliances necessitate compromises, like in Bihar, scheduled for elections next year. Giriraj Singh embarks on a Hindu pride journey. On Tuesday, JDU objected, citing constitutional importance. On Wednesday, BJP asserted it wouldn't compromise on Nitish Kumar’s secular image, framing Singh’s journey as personal.
Partnerships are vital but also come with challenges, seen in Bihar, where elections loom. Giriraj Singh is soon undertaking a Hindu pride tour. Tuesday saw JDU's criticism, emphasizing the constitution's importance. On Wednesday, BJP declared it wouldn't sacrifice Nitish Kumar’s secular image, distancing the party from the journey labeling it personal.
