In a strategic move just before the pivotal INDIA bloc meeting, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge unveiled a five-member National Alliance Committee on December 19. The committee comprises seasoned party leaders Ashok Gehlot, Salman Khurshid, Bhupesh Baghel, Mukul Wasnik, and Mohan Prakash, and is geared towards navigating alliances in the lead-up to the 2024 General Elections.
The announcement’s timing is noteworthy, aligning with the commencement of the INDIA leaders’ meeting in the capital. With alliances becoming a contentious issue within the party, the committee’s formation aims to address challenges related to partnerships and seat-sharing among various INDIA allies.
Former Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath’s refusal to share seats with the Samajwadi Party in the recent State Assembly election stirred internal tensions, threatening the unity of the INDIA bloc. However, Kharge’s outreach to SP chief Akhilesh Yadav is reported to have averted a potential split.
The committee’s role gains significance as state Congress units in Punjab and Delhi oppose any tie-up with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Additionally, Kerala’s Congress rules out an alliance with the Left Front, while in Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party expresses reservations about conceding too many seats to the Congress.
As the political landscape evolves and alliances shape the path to the upcoming elections, the National Alliance Committee’s formation underscores Congress’s proactive approach in managing internal differences and securing a cohesive front within the INDIA bloc. The decisions made by this committee are poised to play a pivotal role in the party’s electoral strategy and collaboration dynamics with alliance partners.