The fragility of the opposition alliance stems, in part, from differing perspectives on the Congress party, led by Rahul Gandhi – it is the sole pan-Indian alternative to the BJP. The party secured less than 20% of the vote and a mere 52 seats in 2019 and continues to struggle.
“It then makes unreasonable demands for seats that regional partners are unwilling to accommodate,” says Mr Verniers. “The perception is that the Congress is a toxic alliance partner because of its own weakness and ability to drag down the ticket.”
To blame the Congress entirely for the opposition’s troubles would be unfair, many believe. In India’s intensely competitive political landscape, pragmatism prevails as each party prioritises its own interests.
“Every other member of the [INDIA] alliance is putting their own interest ahead of the general interest. What matters to them is their own state. If they lose the general election can they fall back on the state they rule,” says Mr Verniers.
Yet, seat-sharing is only part of the battle. The opposition, say scholars, is unable to provide a compelling alternative narrative to the BJP’s popular blend of Hindu nationalism and development. Also, as Asim Ali, a political scientist, says, this narrative enjoys the support of a large section of the media, business and society. “Issues only come to the fore when they have widespread social support,” he says.
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Publish date : 2024-08-22 08:31:00
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