The main opposition Congress party’s president, Mallikarjun Kharge, has announced that the opposition alliance formed to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be called INDIA, which stands for ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance.’ The decision was made during a two-day meeting held in Bengaluru, where leaders of 26 opposition parties strategized and formed a coordination committee comprising 11 members.

Details

1. Opposition parties unite under INDIA allianceLeaders of 26 opposition parties convened in Bengaluru on July 17-18 to discuss a unified strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Following the meeting, they officially announced the formation of an alliance called ‘INDIA’ to counter the ruling BJP. The alliance aims to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in the upcoming elections.
2. Coordinated efforts to ensure successThe opposition alliance recognized the importance of unity in the fight against the BJP. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed confidence in their collective strength and highlighted the unanimous agreement on the name ‘Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance – INDIA.’ The alliance aims to bring back democracy, secularism, and social justice, emphasizing their commitment to progress and the welfare of the nation.
3. Mamata Banerjee and Rahul Gandhi speak outWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted that INDIA would emerge victorious, challenging the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized that the name INDIA symbolizes their determination to protect the idea of India from the ideology of the BJP. He condemned the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few businessmen and clarified that the opposition’s fight is against this ideology, not a mere opposition-versus-BJP conflict.
4. Next meeting and support on social mediaThe next meeting of the opposition alliance will take place in Mumbai. Earlier on July 18, Congress Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore hinted at the name INDIA on Twitter, expressing confidence in its victory. Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien also tweeted “Chak De! INDIA” during the ongoing meeting, showcasing support for the alliance.

Conclusion

The opposition parties in India have formed a strong coalition named INDIA – Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance – to challenge the ruling BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This united front aims to protect democracy, secularism, and social justice while working towards the progress and welfare of the country. With the unanimous agreement on the name, the alliance seeks to symbolize their determination to defend the idea of India against the BJP’s ideology. The next meeting will be held in Mumbai as the opposition continues to strategize and gather support.