Rifts Widen in INDIA Coalition as AAP Targets Congress Exit
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New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) The growing divide between Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has intensified into outright conflict, with AAP now hinting at a move to expel Congress from the INDIA bloc.
AAP leaders articulated their discontent with Congress on Thursday, citing a sense of “deep resentment” within the party. They revealed intentions to engage with other alliance members to consider Congress's exclusion from the coalition. This development occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions and mutual accusations, further undermining the opposition alliance.
The discord heightened during the Winter session of Parliament, as discussions emerged about potentially reshuffling the leadership of the INDIA bloc, with figures like RJD chief Lalu Prasad proposing that Mamata Banerjee assume leadership.
The INDIA bloc, which consists of parties such as the Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, RJD, DMK, Shiv Sena (UBT), and AAP, faces a significant test of cohesion. AAP's plans to converse with its allies could exacerbate the ongoing turmoil.
Compounding the situation, several Congress leaders in Delhi have openly criticized AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal. Congress National Treasurer and Rajya Sabha MP Ajay Maken accused Kejriwal of corruption and administrative failures.
Maken’s accusations encompassed mismanagement during the Covid-19 pandemic and unfulfilled commitments such as the enactment of the Jan Lokpal Bill.
He remarked, “Even after 3,652 days, the Jan Lokpal has not been implemented, despite these individuals coming to power on the promise of enacting it,” questioning, “Why have they not implemented the Jan Lokpal in Punjab, where they have complete autonomy?”
“During the pandemic, when lives were at stake, Arvind Kejriwal squandered crores on a lavish bungalow. Even after 11 years, ration cards remain unissued for thousands of families in Delhi,” Maken stated.
He further claimed that funds allocated for welfare initiatives were squandered on promotional campaigns.
The Aam Aadmi Party has repudiated these allegations as unfounded and has chosen to elevate this matter with other members of the INDIA bloc. AAP asserts that it will pursue discussions with coalition partners to deliberate on the removal of Congress from the alliance.
