The opposition alliance 'India' block suffered a significant blow on Sunday. Seizing control in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee has played her political cards for the Lok Sabha elections by adopting a solo approach. TMC announced its candidates for all 42 seats, opting to contest individually in the elections.
With Banerjee's declaration, the clouds of crisis loom once more over the opposition's India block in West Bengal, reviving questions about its future. There was a time when Banerjee was at the forefront, urging opposition leaders to join hands and walk together to strengthen the India block.
Why the Alliance Fractured
Multiple reasons are cited for the splintering of the India block in West Bengal. Experts believe the main cause is the continuous rhetoric of Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury against Banerjee since 2023, which has clearly revealed Banerjee's intention to leave no stone unturned in defeating him, by fielding TMC's strongest candidate.
The move by Mamata Banerjee to go it alone in Bengal rattled the Congress, as she had previously accused the Congress leadership of rejecting her suggestions and proposals, and, following that, she decided to contest the elections independently.
Mamata's Resentment Over Exclusion From 'Bharat Jodo Justice Yatra'
Experts also note that when Rahul Gandhi arrived in West Bengal with his 'Bharat Jodo Justice Yatra,' there was no communication to Banerjee about participating. At the time, Banerjee, without naming Rahul Gandhi, expressed her displeasure about not being informed despite the courtesy that should have been extended. Nonetheless, Congress leaders categorically rejected her claim and clarified that all allies, including Mamata Banerjee, were invited to join the journey.
Mamata Emerged as a Leader Under Sonia Gandhi: Congress Leader
Moreover, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury targeted Mamata Banerjee, stating that this lady (Banerjee) became a leader under the guidance of Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi. He questioned her integrity and arrogance in showing hubris to those who established her in politics.
Deadlines Imposed for Seat Sharing Agreements
In December 2023, TMC proposed in the India block's fourth meeting that Congress should contest nearly 300 seats nationally where it directly faces BJP, and support regional parties in the rest. Post-meeting, Banerjee set a deadline until December 31 for discussions on seat-sharing formulas. However, beyond a few states, the tussle over seat distribution among India block's allies persists.
Congress's Uncertain Victory in 40 Seats
Addressing a public gathering in Murshidabad recently, Banerjee doubted whether Congress, contesting in 300 constituencies, would manage to win even 40. She challenged their strength in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and dared them to secure a victory in Varanasi.
