New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Sets Stage for Alliance with INDIA Partners
In a recent address, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the importance of winning as many seats as possible by collaborating with like-minded colleagues in the upcoming general election in 2024. He urged party members to focus on actionable points and necessary steps. Additionally, Kharge called on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to kick off the second phase of the Bharat Jodo Yatra from January 14.
Kharge, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, expressed concerns about the politicization of constitutional posts and the use of caste, region, and occupation as shields in party politics.
Mimicry Controversy and Support
These comments come amidst a backdrop of controversy, as Vice President and Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankar took exception to Opposition leaders mimicking him during protests against the suspension of over 140 members of parliament. Dhankar’s mimicry led to protests, with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi voicing their support for him.
Preparations for 2024 National Election
As the Congress Working Committee (CWC) gears up to discuss the party’s preparations for the 2024 national election, Kharge highlighted the progress made by the INDIA alliance in various directions. He emphasized the need to coordinate with like-minded colleagues and announced the establishment of a National Alliance Committee (NAC) to decide the contours of the alliance with other parties. In preparation for the Lok Sabha, review meetings have been conducted in approximately 24 states, and coordinators for Lok Sabha seats will be appointed soon.
Looking Ahead
Kharge’s statements underscore the party’s focus on coalition building and strategic planning ahead of the 2024 general election.
About the Author: Saubhadra Chatterji is Deputy Political Editor at the Hindustan Times. He writes on both politics and policies.