Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar stated that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is crucial for the Opposition INDIA bloc’s existence. Aiyar emphasized that without Mamata Banerjee, the INDIA alliance would lose its significance as she leads the alliance. He suggested that leaders like DMK Chief M.K. Stalin, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav could also have prominent roles.
Aiyar also hinted at his uncertain status within the Congress party, citing remarks by the party’s General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal that hinted at potential disciplinary measures against him. Despite feeling aligned with the Congress, Aiyar expressed concerns about a possible expulsion, although he had not received any formal notice.
Furthermore, Aiyar recommended that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi should allow leaders from smaller parties to lead the INDIA bloc instead of seeking the top position. He noted a perceived support for Mamata Banerjee within the Congress, highlighting his historical ties with her dating back to his brief stint with the Trinamool Congress in 1997.
