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The monsoon session of Parliament in 2025 witnessed an unexpected display of unity within the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties aiming to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This newfound cohesion manifested in a joint strategy both inside and outside the House, culminating in the unanimous selection of a vice-presidential candidate. For the first time, the INDIA bloc presented itself as a cohesive and formidable force, a stark contrast to its previously fragmented image. However, beneath the surface of this apparent unity lie deep-seated fissures and inherent fragilities that threaten the long-term viability of the alliance. The INDIA bloc is comprised of a diverse range of political parties, each with its own distinct ideologies, agendas, and electoral priorities. These differences, which have often led to internal conflicts and disagreements in the past, remain a significant obstacle to achieving lasting unity. The article highlights the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as an example of this inherent instability. Despite having previously distanced itself from the INDIA bloc, the AAP temporarily rejoined the fold to support the Opposition's vice-presidential candidate. This temporary alliance, however, underscores the opportunistic nature of some of the partnerships within the bloc, where short-term political gains often outweigh long-term strategic considerations. The article also points to the contrasting approaches of different parties within the INDIA bloc as a source of potential conflict. While some parties may prioritize consensus and compromise, others, such as the Trinamool Congress (TMC), adopt a more aggressive and assertive stance. This divergence in tactics can lead to friction and resentment within the alliance, undermining its overall effectiveness. Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) emerged as a particularly assertive force during the monsoon session. With West Bengal elections looming just seven months away, the TMC intensified its attacks on the BJP, staging frequent protests both inside and outside Parliament. The party strategically positioned itself as a key driver of the Opposition’s agenda, employing unique cultural forms of protest to capture public attention and demonstrate its commitment to challenging the ruling party. The TMC's aggressive approach, however, was not without its critics. Some within the INDIA bloc may have viewed the party's tactics as overly confrontational or as an attempt to dominate the Opposition narrative. Nevertheless, the TMC defended its actions by pointing to its electoral success in West Bengal, where it had managed to reduce the BJP's Lok Sabha tally from 18 in 2019 to 12 in 2024. This electoral performance, the TMC argued, demonstrated its ability to effectively challenge the BJP and its credentials as a leading force within the Opposition. The TMC also played a significant role in building consensus around the vice-presidential candidate, former Justice Sudershan Reddy. The party insisted on projecting Reddy as an "Opposition candidate" rather than an "INDIA bloc candidate," signaling its desire to broaden the coalition's appeal and attract support from parties outside the formal alliance. This strategic move reflected the TMC's ambition to shape the Opposition's agenda and play a decisive role in future political developments. Despite the apparent unity surrounding the vice-presidential election, cracks within the INDIA bloc were still evident. The article mentions an instance where the TMC disagreed with Congress MP Manish Tewari's objection to the Home Minister's presentation of certain bills. While the TMC had initially agreed on a consensus not to intervene, Tewari's actions sparked visible irritation within the party. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and disagreements that exist beneath the surface of the INDIA bloc's public displays of unity. The TMC, however, also claims credit for playing a crucial role in keeping the INDIA bloc together. The party emphasizes its efforts to reach out to the AAP, with Mamata Banerjee personally initiating communication with Arvind Kejriwal. The sight of Kejriwal standing alongside Congress leaders during the vice-presidential campaign, after months of strained relations, was seen as a positive sign of reconciliation and collaboration within the Opposition. In the Rajya Sabha, the TMC asserts that it took the lead in protesting against the Home Minister's bill, even as other Opposition MPs, including those from Congress, remained hesitant. This proactive approach, according to the TMC, demonstrates its commitment to challenging the government and its ability to mobilize other parties within the INDIA bloc. The real challenge for the INDIA bloc, however, lies ahead. With Parliament adjourned and the vice-presidential election concluded, the alliance must now demonstrate its ability to maintain unity and cohesion in the face of ongoing political challenges. The article raises the crucial question of whether the newfound camaraderie between the Congress and the TMC, once bitter rivals, can withstand the test of time. The distance between the two parties has undoubtedly narrowed, but the question remains: how long will this uneasy journey last? The long-term success of the INDIA bloc hinges on its ability to overcome internal divisions, reconcile conflicting agendas, and present a united front against the BJP. Whether the alliance can achieve this ambitious goal remains to be seen. The fragile foundation of the INDIA bloc, built on a complex web of alliances and compromises, may ultimately prove to be its undoing. The inherent contradictions and competing interests of its constituent parties pose a significant threat to its long-term viability. Only time will tell whether the INDIA bloc can overcome these challenges and emerge as a credible and effective opposition to the ruling BJP.
The key challenge for the INDIA bloc is to translate its newfound unity during the monsoon session into a sustainable and cohesive political force. This requires addressing the underlying fissures and contradictions that continue to plague the alliance. The diverse range of ideologies, agendas, and electoral priorities among the constituent parties presents a significant obstacle to achieving lasting unity. The INDIA bloc must find a way to reconcile these differences and forge a common vision that resonates with voters across the country. The success of the INDIA bloc also depends on its ability to develop a clear and consistent message that can effectively challenge the BJP's dominance in the political landscape. This message must address the key issues facing the country, such as economic inequality, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The INDIA bloc must also present a credible alternative to the BJP's governance model, offering a vision of a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous India. The INDIA bloc's ability to attract new allies and expand its reach will be crucial to its long-term success. This requires reaching out to smaller regional parties and social movements that share its commitment to challenging the BJP's hegemony. The INDIA bloc must also engage with civil society organizations and grassroots movements to build a broader coalition of support. The INDIA bloc's performance in the upcoming state elections will be a key indicator of its strength and viability. These elections will provide an opportunity for the alliance to test its message, mobilize its supporters, and demonstrate its ability to win elections. A strong showing in the state elections will boost the INDIA bloc's morale and credibility, while a weak performance could undermine its long-term prospects.
The role of individual leaders and parties within the INDIA bloc will also be crucial in shaping its future trajectory. Mamata Banerjee's TMC, with its aggressive and assertive approach, is likely to continue to play a significant role in shaping the Opposition's agenda. However, the TMC must also be mindful of the need to work collaboratively with other parties within the alliance and avoid alienating potential allies. The Congress party, as the largest opposition party, has a critical responsibility to provide leadership and direction to the INDIA bloc. The Congress must overcome its internal challenges and demonstrate its ability to unite the opposition and present a credible alternative to the BJP. The role of other key leaders, such as Arvind Kejriwal of the AAP and Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, will also be important in shaping the INDIA bloc's future. These leaders must work together to build a cohesive and effective alliance that can challenge the BJP's dominance in the political landscape. Ultimately, the success of the INDIA bloc will depend on its ability to overcome its internal divisions, reconcile conflicting agendas, and present a united front against the BJP. This requires strong leadership, effective communication, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous India. The challenges facing the INDIA bloc are significant, but the potential rewards are even greater. A strong and united opposition is essential for a healthy democracy, and the INDIA bloc has the potential to play a vital role in shaping the future of Indian politics. The question remains: can the INDIA bloc rise to the occasion and deliver on its promise?
Source: VP Poll Brings INDIA Bloc Together, But Will The Unity Last Beyond The Monsoon Session?