Shiv Sena (UBT) Calls for INDIA Bloc to Wake Up Amid Growing Internal Rifts
In a sharp critique, Shiv Sena (UBT) has urged the INDIA opposition alliance to "wake up" and initiate discussions ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in several states. The party's mouthpiece, Saamana, emphasized in an editorial that the coalition must not delay coordinating its strategy until polls are officially announced.
Editorial Highlights Confusion Within the Alliance
The editorial, titled "Confusion of inner voices, Mamata, Stalin or someone else?", pointed out that multiple inner voices are emerging within the grand old party, creating a sense of disorder. It stressed that wisdom lies in taking alert, collective decisions together, rather than waiting for election announcements to spur action.
The article drew a contrast with Mahatma Gandhi, noting that his inner voice was guided by spirituality, patriotism, and selflessness, whereas today's Congress is plagued by conflicting voices that are not a healthy sign for the country. With Assembly elections approaching in five states, these internal disputes have only added to the confusion.
Statements from Key Figures Fuel Leadership Debate
The editorial cited recent statements by figures such as Mani Shankar Aiyar, Sanjaya Baru, and Bhupen Bora, which have surfaced at inconvenient times and complicated matters for the Congress. Aiyar remarked that Congress's victory in Kerala would be difficult due to factionalism, suggesting that Pinarayi Vijayan may return as Chief Minister. Despite being a Gandhian, Nehruvian, and Rajiv loyalist, Aiyar made it clear he is "not Rahulvadi".
Meanwhile, Sanjaya Baru, in an opinion piece, proposed that leadership of the INDIA bloc be handed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, arguing that she is better positioned to lead opposition forces. Baru, who served as media adviser to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, emphasized that new ideas should lead or manage the alliance, highlighting Banerjee's unique status as the only woman currently heading both a political party and a government.
Leadership Questions Resurface Post-Lok Sabha Elections
Around the same time, Aiyar suggested Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin for the role, citing his strong advocacy for regional parties. The editorial noted that whatever the case, the leadership question within the INDIA alliance has resurfaced, raising delicate questions about the alliance's future after the Lok Sabha elections.
The article concluded by questioning what exactly became of the alliance post-elections, underscoring the need for clarity and unity as Assembly elections loom in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry in 2026. The Election Commission of India is expected to announce the official schedule soon, adding urgency to the call for discussions.
