West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction with the INDIA Bloc's poor performance in the recent Haryana and Maharashtra elections, hinting at her readiness to take command if given a chance.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo mentioned that she could manage the dual responsibility of continuing her role as Bengal's Chief Minister while also leading the opposition front. Speaking to a TV channel, Mamata Banerjee said, "I was instrumental in forming the INDIA Bloc, and now those leading must take responsibility for its management. If they can't lead, what am I to do? All I can say is that everyone must be united."
I Can Lead the INDIA Bloc from Bengal
When asked why she hasn't taken charge of the INDIA Bloc despite her credentials as a formidable anti-BJP force, Banerjee responded, "If given the opportunity, I will ensure smooth operation." She added, "I don't wish to leave Bengal, but I can manage from here."
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The INDIA Bloc, formed to confront the BJP, includes over two dozen opposition parties. However, internal disagreements and lack of coordination have led to frequent criticism.
Mamata Banerjee's latest remarks followed similar sentiments expressed by her party MP Kalyan Banerjee regarding Congress and other INDIA Bloc allies. Kalyan Banerjee emphasized that Congress and the INDIA Bloc should disregard their egos and recognize Mamata Banerjee as the leader of the alliance.
Congress Disappoints in Elections
As a point of reference, while BJP performed admirably in Maharashtra, securing a record number of seats, Congress's performance was disappointing. The BJP-led ruling grand alliance celebrated significant victories, while the INDIA Bloc made a strong comeback in Jharkhand, thanks to JMM's exceptional performance.
Congress continued its losing streak, marking its worst performance in Maharashtra and emerging as a distant junior partner to the ruling JMM in Jharkhand, further diminishing its role in the opposition bloc as other allies outperformed it.
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TMC Defeats BJP in By-Elections
Meanwhile, the TMC's recent victory in by-elections, defeating the BJP, solidified the party's dominance in West Bengal, even as the opposition campaigns focused on issues like the RG Kar Medical College protests.
The CPI(M)-led Left Front, its ally CPI(ML) Liberation, and Congress, which are TMC's national allies in the INDIA Bloc, faced significant setbacks, with many candidates losing their deposits. Although Congress is often seen as the largest party in the INDIA Bloc and, at times, the de facto leader, TMC has consistently advocated for Mamata Banerjee to take the reins of the coalition.
