Speculation is rife regarding the name of the newly- formed Opposition front, which comprises parties such as the Congress, the Janata Dal (U), the RJD, NCP, TMC, DMK, Left, and others.

Sources said the front may be called the ‘Patriotic Democratic Alliance.’ The formal announcement of the name, contingent upon consensus among all participating parties, is anticipated during the forthcoming Opposition meeting scheduled in Shimla next month.

The initial meeting, held in Patna on Friday, saw the participation of 17 political parties, including the AAP, with the aim of collectively challenging the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the forthcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The naming of the alliance holds significance as it reflects the shared vision and principles of the diverse parties involved.

The term ‘Patriotic Democratic Alliance (PDA)’ gained attention on Sunday when CPI general secretary D Raja referred to it in a Press release discussing the party’s action plan for the Opposition meeting. However, Congress sources denied the emergence of such a name, suggesting it could be a product of the Left’s imagination.

Meanwhile, sources from other parties, including the RJD and the JD(U), revealed that the name had been proposed and might receive approval during the Shimla meeting called by Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

A senior Congress leader noted that the UPA, although still in existence, has lost political relevance and certain leaders within the alliance have voiced concerns about its current name.

The Congress-oriented front, UPA, could potentially be replaced with a new name that ensures equal representation among all stakeholders.