INDIA bloc meeting to convene tomorrow with 23 parties; DMK opts out

The INDIA bloc will hold a key meeting in Delhi with 23 parties attending, but DMK’s absence and fresh tensions between alliance partners have raised questions over Opposition unity.

New Delhi: The upcoming meeting of the INDIA bloc in New Delhi has gained significance amid growing political tensions within the alliance, with senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh insisting that the coalition remains united despite some parties opting out.

The meeting, scheduled at the Constitution Club on June 8, is expected to see participation from 23 opposition parties.

Congress says alliance remains united

In a post on X, Ramesh said parties absent from the meeting continue to oppose the Modi government’s policies on issues including inflation, unemployment, alleged misuse of investigative agencies, and threats to constitutional institutions.

INDIA bloc faces fresh discord ahead of key meeting; CPM, JMM join DMK’s dissent

He described the INDIA alliance as a “Janbandhan” united in diversity despite differing political compulsions among regional allies.

DMK skips meeting amid alliance friction

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has decided not to attend the meeting, citing what it described as Congress’s “betrayal” in Tamil Nadu after backing Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam following the elections.

The decision has highlighted growing strain within the Opposition bloc, particularly in states where regional parties and Congress compete for political space despite being national allies.

However, the DMK said it would continue supporting issues raised against the Centre at the national level.

TMC and CPI(M) also face internal challenges

All India Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee is expected to attend the meeting amid reports of internal dissent within the party after recent electoral setbacks in West Bengal.

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Meanwhile, Communist Party of India (Marxist) has conveyed concerns to Congress over campaign remarks made during the Kerala Assembly elections alleging CPI(M)-BJP proximity.

CPI(M) general secretary MA Baby wrote to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge seeking clarification over the allegations.

Meeting seen as crucial for Opposition unity

The gathering comes at a politically sensitive moment for the Opposition alliance as it attempts to maintain cohesion against the BJP’s growing dominance while managing disagreements among constituent parties.

Political observers say the meeting could prove crucial in determining whether the INDIA bloc can navigate internal friction and project a united front ahead of future electoral battles.