AIMIM Criticizes Opposition Meet for Exclusion

Mumbai: All-India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Waris Pathan expressed disappointment at the two-day opposition meeting in Bengaluru, where 26 like-minded parties participated. The AIMIM party was not invited to the meeting, leading Pathan to assert that the “so-called” secular parties were treating them as “political untouchables.” He questioned how someone could overlook Asaduddin Owaisi’s party.

The joint meeting concluded on Tuesday, with all 26 parties agreeing to come together under the name “Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance” (I.N.D.I.A). Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the media after the meeting, announcing the new name and stating that the resolution was unanimously passed.

The meeting in Bengaluru was a significant event, with top leaders from 26 opposition parties across the country gathering to strategize a united approach to challenge the ruling NDA alliance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi chief Thol Thirumavalavan revealed that the name “I.N.D.I.A” was proposed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and after thorough discussions, it was decided to be called the “Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance.”

Meanwhile, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate praised Rahul Gandhi’s efforts in justifying the name “I.N.D.I.A” during the meeting, emphasizing that it was a collective decision.

During the meeting, the representatives of the 26 parties decided to form an 11-member coordination committee that includes major parties. A ‘secretariat’ will be established in Delhi for campaign management and coordination of various sub-committees to address specific issues.

The next opposition meeting will take place in Mumbai, and an 11-member coordination committee will be announced on that occasion, according to Mr. Kharge.

Rahul Gandhi called the upcoming Lok Sabha elections a battle between “I.N.D.I.A” and PM Modi, emphasizing that it is not merely a contest between two political formations but a fight to safeguard the idea of India. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee challenged the NDA and BJP, asking if they can challenge “I.N.D.I.A.” She emphasized that they are for the country, farmers, and all people, including Hindus, Dalits, and minorities.

AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal stated that leaders from like-minded parties came together to save the country from hatred, expressing concerns about the state of various sectors during PM Modi’s tenure.

The meeting marked a crucial step for the opposition in preparing to counter the ruling party’s efforts in the upcoming elections. While the AIMIM’s exclusion from the meeting raised concerns, the 26 parties displayed a collective commitment to form a strong alliance under the name “I.N.D.I.A.”