The discord within the Opposition’s INDIA bloc in West Bengal has become apparent as the Congress criticized Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee for offering only two out of the state’s 42 Lok Sabha seats. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, the Bengal Congress president, asserted that the Congress doesn’t need Banerjee’s generosity, emphasizing their ability to win more seats independently.
Chowdhury questioned Banerjee’s intentions, stating that the two seats offered by the Trinamool already have Congress MPs. He argued that the Trinamool relies more on the Congress and accused Banerjee of needing Congress support to secure victory. Last month, Banerjee had hinted at the Trinamool Congress contesting the elections alone, asserting their capability to challenge the BJP in the state.
The Bengal Congress president dismissed Banerjee’s offer, expressing mistrust and asserting that the Congress can win more seats without relying on her goodwill. The rift in the INDIA bloc is not unique to West Bengal, as similar issues are arising in other states like Punjab, where the AAP and Congress hint at separate contestations.
Banerjee, in her statements, stressed that only the TMC can counter the BJP in West Bengal and set an example for other states. She urged the INDIA bloc to ensure the state doesn’t slip away, emphasizing the potential increase in BJP’s influence if TMC loses seats. The BJP, on the other hand, downplayed the INDIA bloc’s unity, citing visible differences and expressing confidence in winning the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
