The opposition INDIA bloc remains united and has begun preparations for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut asserted on Monday, dismissing claims that the alliance has weakened or lost relevance.
Speaking ahead of the INDIA bloc meeting, Raut said leaders of most constituent parties would participate either physically or virtually, including Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, who is expected to join the discussions online from Mumbai.
"The INDIA alliance is intact and united. Those claiming that nothing remains of the INDIA bloc will get their answer in 2029," Raut said, while accusing the BJP of winning elections through manipulation and misuse of power. He claimed the opposition's primary objective is to remove what he described as an "imposed government" and provide citizens with an opportunity to breathe freely in a democratic environment.
According to Raut, the meeting assumes significance as opposition parties begin formulating a long-term strategy against the BJP-led NDA government. He said leaders from various regional parties, including the Trinamool Congress, the Samajwadi Party, the Left parties, and other alliance partners, are participating in the discussions.
Raut reiterated that there is no challenge to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's leadership within the alliance. However, he stressed that the opposition should seriously consider projecting a common prime ministerial face before the next general election.
"Uddhav Thackeray has consistently maintained that an alliance should enter elections with a clear leadership before the people. We believe that announcing a prime ministerial candidate before the polls would strengthen the opposition's campaign," he said.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also highlighted that alliance partners would discuss political developments in states such as Punjab and Tamil Nadu and explore ways to strengthen coordination among opposition parties across the country.
Responding to recent remarks by Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav regarding alleged irregularities in donations received by the Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya, Raut said Yadav's concerns should not be dismissed outright. Referring to purported CCTV footage cited by opposition leaders, he said any allegations involving public donations should be investigated thoroughly and transparently.
The Delhi meeting is being viewed as an important exercise in reviving opposition coordination after a period of political differences among some alliance partners. Raut said the gathering would focus on strengthening organisational unity, evolving a common political narrative and preparing a roadmap for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
"The agenda is clear, to protect democracy, uphold constitutional values and present a credible alternative before the people of the country," he said.
