| 17 July 2023
In a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for Indian politics, the anti-BJP parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have decided to rebrand themselves ahead of the 2024 general elections. The new alliance, previously known as the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), will choose a new name during the upcoming mega opposition meeting scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on Tuesday. Sources close to the matter have revealed that more than 20 parties are expected to attend this crucial gathering, which will shape the future course of the opposition coalition.
The UPA, led by the Congress party, held power at the Centre for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014 under the chairpersonship of former party president Sonia Gandhi. However, with the changing political landscape and the need to present a unified front against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the opposition parties have decided to discard the UPA name and rebrand themselves.
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal emphasized that the decision on the new name would be collectively taken during the meeting, highlighting the inclusive and democratic nature of the proposed alliance. Venugopal stated in a press conference, "We will take all decisions. I can't tell you now what are the issues that are going to be discussed. Congress is not deciding this alone. All the opposition parties will sit together and decide unitedly."
While the specific details of the rebranding are yet to be announced, sources indicate that the opposition bloc will establish a common minimum program and engage in discussions regarding seat sharing on a state-to-state basis. A sub-committee is likely to be formed to draft the common minimum program and communication strategy for the alliance in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Furthermore, another sub-committee is expected to be established to plan joint campaigning activities, including rallies, conventions, and agitations.
Apart from the name change, the opposition parties plan to address crucial electoral issues, such as the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), by suggesting reforms to the Election Commission. The establishment of a common secretariat for the proposed alliance is also under consideration, indicating a desire for a more cohesive and structured approach to opposition politics.
The Bengaluru meeting is set to commence on Tuesday with an opening address by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge. The opposition parties are expected to conduct a joint press conference at 4 pm following the meeting, where they will likely unveil the new name and provide insights into their strategic plans for the future.
This gathering in Bengaluru marks the second major meeting of opposition parties aiming to build a united front against the BJP-led NDA government ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The first meeting, held in Patna, Bihar on June 23, laid the groundwork for forging unity among the opposition parties. The upcoming meeting in Bengaluru will offer them an opportunity to iron out their differences and project a cohesive and formidable force to challenge the ruling party in the next general elections.
While the opposition gears up for this crucial event, the BJP has launched a counter-narrative, dismissing the proposed coalition as a "Protection of Dynasties Alliance." BJP President JP Nadda accused the opposition parties of forming an alliance solely to safeguard their dynastic politics. Nadda further criticized the UPA, associating it with "utpidan (oppression), pakshpat (favouritism), and atyachar (atrocities)." These contrasting narratives highlight the deep ideological and political divisions between the ruling party and the opposition.
As the opposition parties gather in Bengaluru, the eyes of the nation will be fixed on the outcome of this crucial meeting. The decisions made during this event will shape the political landscape in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, as the new alliance seeks to present a united front and challenge the dominance of the BJP-led NDA.
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