As the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections approach, speculation is rife about potential post-poll alliances. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has finally broken his silence on whether his party would support the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in a hung assembly situation. Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Kharge stated that the primary goal is to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and that all opposition parties must work together. He did not rule out supporting the TMC but emphasized that any decision would be taken after the election results, keeping in mind the larger interest of the people of Bengal.
Kharge's Statement on Post-Poll Alliance
Kharge said, "Our focus is on defeating the BJP. We are in touch with all like-minded parties. If a situation arises where we need to form a government with the TMC, we will consider it at that time. But we have not made any pre-poll alliance with them." He added that the Congress party's primary objective is to strengthen its own base in West Bengal, where it has been a marginal player in recent years.
Background of Congress-TMC Relations
The Congress and TMC have had a tumultuous relationship. While they were allies in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) at the center until 2012, they have been rivals in Bengal. However, with the BJP emerging as a common enemy, there have been calls for opposition unity. In the 2021 assembly elections, the Congress contested separately and won only a handful of seats.
Opposition Unity Against BJP
Kharge's remarks come amid efforts by the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc to consolidate opposition parties. Many opposition leaders believe that a united front is essential to counter the BJP's electoral machinery. In Bengal, the TMC is the main opposition to the BJP, and any split in anti-BJP votes could benefit the saffron party.
What Analysts Say
Political analysts suggest that Kharge's statement is carefully worded to keep options open without alienating either the TMC or Congress workers. A post-poll alliance with the TMC could help Congress regain relevance in Bengal, but it might also upset its traditional supporters who view the TMC as a corrupt and authoritarian party.
Possible Scenarios
- Hung Assembly: If no party gets a majority, the Congress could play the role of kingmaker. Its support to the TMC would ensure a non-BJP government.
- Clear Majority for TMC: In this case, Congress would likely sit in opposition, focusing on rebuilding its organization.
- BJP Victory: If the BJP wins, Congress and TMC might unite on the streets against the central government's policies.
Conclusion
Kharge has left the door open for a possible alliance with the TMC after the elections, but he has not committed to anything. The final decision will depend on the election outcome and the political calculations at that time. For now, the Congress is focusing on contesting the elections on its own strength and hoping to improve its tally.
