Leaders from the Congress, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Janata Dal (United) are in constant touch to ensure a harmonious atmosphere at the crucial meeting of the Opposition parties in Patna on Friday.
The primary objective of these discussions is to prevent any disagreements or conflicts that could generate unfavorable publicity for the Opposition. With the ruling BJP keenly observing the developments, the Opposition is steadfast in its determination to showcase a united front against the ruling party’s agenda.
A senior Congress leader emphasised the need for meticulous handling of the national aspirations of the Opposition parties, particularly considering major political contradictions in States like Punjab, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
The AAP, which holds a strong majority in the Delhi and Punjab, remains firm on not relinquishing a single Lok Sabha seat. The party is eager to engage in a triangular contest with both the Congress and the BJP.
Additionally, the Congress and left parties face a challenge from the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and neighboring Tripura, where the latter intends to contest all Lok Sabha seats. Congress and Left parties also hold significance in these States.
The Opposition’s efforts have already encountered some setbacks, with Jitan Ram Manjhi’s Hindustani Awam Morcha parting ways with the Nitish Kumar-led alliance Government. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in Telangana has announced its decision not to ally with any Congress-led front and is expanding its base in other States. Meanwhile, Naveen Patnaik’s BJD remains silent on any form of political alliance, despite Nitish’s personal outreach to him and other leaders in recent times.
Congress sources indicate that the first meeting may avoid touching upon regional leadership issues to avert confrontation.
However, the Trinamool Congress has proposed the formation of a working group comprising members from various parties to ensure day-to-day coordination among the opposition constituents.
“The group’s mandate would be focused on professional requirements for the 2024 General Elections. It would monitor political activities and statements of member parties to steer clear of controversies and bridge gaps. A united Opposition is the only way to prevent BJP’s return to power,” explained the leader.
Leaders within the party also revealed that the Bihar unit is preparing to give a grand welcome to former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi during his visit to Patna for the meeting. Rahul will be accompanied by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary in-charge of organization, K C Venugopal. They will first conduct an internal party meeting at the Bihar Congress office before joining the gathering of Opposition leaders.
Gandhi is expected to spend approximately an hour at Sadaqat Ashram, where a massive marquee spanning 70,000 square feet is being set up for the casion.