The INDIA bloc’s existence is fading into history books as internal rifts continue to fracture its unity. Following the departure of the RLD from the alliance in UP, the AAP has dealt another blow by offering just one Lok Sabha seat to the Congress in Delhi, contrary to previous expectations of a more equitable distribution.
AAP MP Sandeep Pathak justified this decision by stating that although the Congress doesn’t merit any seats in Delhi based on recent electoral performances, they are extending one seat out of alliance spirit. The AAP intends to contest the remaining six seats in Delhi.
Pathak emphasized that while candidate announcements are pending pending further discussions, the AAP hopes for a productive meeting in Delhi soon. However, he expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in seat-sharing talks with the Congress despite two official meetings.
In addition to the Delhi seat offer, AAP challenged the Congress by nominating Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas for the South Goa seat, currently held by Congress MP Francisco Sardinha. AAP also named Chaitar Vasava for Bharuch and Umesh Bhai Makwana for Bhavnagar seats in Gujarat.
Pathak lamented the absence of progress in discussions with the Congress, noting the dearth of meetings in recent times. As parties gear up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the fragmentation within the INDIA bloc becomes more apparent, especially with the BJP expanding its coalition with new partners like the RLD.