The rift within the opposition alliance widened on Monday as the DMK and AAP extended their support to the CPI(M) following the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids on former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The development comes amid growing tensions within the I.N.D.I.A bloc, with the CPI(M) accusing the Congress of undermining opposition unity.
CPI(M) Criticizes Congress
On Monday, the CPI(M) strongly criticized the Congress for attacking the Left party and linking it with the BJP. The Left party said that the Congress's attitude towards other opposition parties is not conducive to building unity in the I.N.D.I.A bloc, which was formed to collectively fight the BJP-RSS. The CPI(M) stressed that such internal bickering only benefits the ruling party.
Support from DMK and AAP
In a show of solidarity, the DMK and AAP came out in support of the CPI(M) over the ED raids. The DMK termed the raids as a political vendetta by the central government, while the AAP accused the BJP of misusing central agencies to target opposition leaders. This support has further highlighted the divisions within the opposition camp, with the Congress remaining isolated on the issue.
The ED raids on Pinarayi Vijayan are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities. Vijayan has denied any wrongdoing and called the raids a politically motivated move. The CPI(M) has vowed to fight the case legally and politically.
Political analysts say the deepening rift could weaken the opposition's ability to present a united front against the BJP in the upcoming elections. The Congress, on the other hand, has defended its stance, saying it will not hesitate to criticize any party it believes is compromising on principles.
