New Delhi: In a significant political development, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has expressed his support for West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee to lead the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc. This endorsement comes amid ongoing discussions about the leadership of the opposition coalition.
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s backing of Banerjee follows her recent declaration of willingness to take on the leadership role. “Mamta Banerjee should be allowed to head the INDIA bloc,” Yadav stated, dismissing any objections from the Congress party as inconsequential12. He emphasized that the leadership decision should be made through consensus among the alliance members.
The reaction from other alliance leaders has been mixed. Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi acknowledged Banerjee’s significant contributions and expressed confidence in her ability to strengthen the alliance if given the leadership role1. She praised Banerjee for her efforts in combating misinformation and false narratives in West Bengal.
However, the Congress party has shown reservations about Banerjee’s leadership. Despite this, Lalu Prasad Yadav remains firm in his support, stating that the Congress’s opposition will not affect the decision3. His son, Tejashwi Yadav, also echoed the need for a consensus-driven approach to selecting the leader of the INDIA bloc.
Mamata Banerjee’s willingness to lead the opposition front comes after expressing dissatisfaction with the current functioning of the INDIA bloc. She has indicated her capability to manage both her responsibilities as the Chief Minister of West Bengal and the leadership of the opposition coalition4.
As the discussions continue, the future leadership of the INDIA bloc remains a crucial topic for the opposition parties, with Lalu Prasad Yadav’s endorsement adding a new dimension to the ongoing debate.
