Key Facts
Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday supported the idea of regional parties that originated from Congress merging back into the party. He urged them to accept Rahul Gandhi as the leader of the opposition INDIA bloc. This comes a day after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut called for a merger led by NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar.
Details of Gehlot's Statement
Speaking to reporters, Gehlot said, "All those parties that became regional parties after separating from Congress should rejoin, and they should wholeheartedly accept Rahul Gandhi as the leader." He emphasized that the fight is to save democracy and that the time has come for unity. Gehlot added, "I believe that what Sanjay Raut has said has merit. The time has come. Now the fight is to save democracy. When we are all on the battlefield fighting to save democracy, I support what Sanjay Raut said."
Gehlot clarified that parties like Shiv Sena, CPI(M), and CPI, which have always been independent, cannot be claimed or urged to merge. He also said he has no complaint against independently formed parties like the Samajwadi Party (SP) not considering the move.
Sanjay Raut's Proposal
On Wednesday, Sanjay Raut urged parties such as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and NCP (SP) — both formed after leaders quit Congress — to return to the fold to form a stronger alliance against the BJP. On Thursday, he suggested that Sharad Pawar should lead the merger process. "If this (Congress) ideology comes together, then it will pose a big challenge to (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi. Pawar should take an initiative regarding this," Raut said.
Impact on INDIA Bloc and Voters
Gehlot argued that a clear message of a common leader would change voting patterns across the country. "They (voters) see that on one side is Narendra Modi ji and on the other side is Rahul Gandhi ji. If there is a clear-cut message that all political parties have together accepted Rahul Gandhi as their leader, then you will see that the voting pattern in the country will change," he said.
What Readers Should Know
- The proposal targets parties that originated from Congress, such as TMC and NCP (SP), not those historically independent.
- Gehlot's support signals a push for consolidation within the INDIA bloc ahead of future elections.
- Rahul Gandhi is positioned as the face of the opposition, with Gehlot emphasizing his leadership.
FAQ
What did Ashok Gehlot say about regional parties rejoining Congress?
Gehlot said all parties that split from Congress should rejoin and accept Rahul Gandhi as their leader.
Which parties did Gehlot mention as exceptions?
He said parties like Shiv Sena, CPI(M), and CPI, which were always independent, cannot be urged to merge.
What was Sanjay Raut's suggestion?
Raut urged regional parties like TMC and NCP (SP) to merge with Congress, with Sharad Pawar leading the initiative.
How did Gehlot justify the merger?
He said a united opposition with Rahul Gandhi as leader would change voting patterns and strengthen democracy against BJP.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com