Meeting Between AAP and Congress: Seat Sharing Decision Imminent; BJP Accuses Alliance of Causing Confusion

Following the initial formal meeting between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Congress on Monday to discuss seat-sharing within the INDIA bloc for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, AAP leaders have indicated that a final decision on seat allocation will be reached soon. In contrast, the BJP has accused the alliance of being in a state of confusion.

The meeting took place amidst speculations of discontent between the state units of Congress and AAP in Delhi and Punjab. AAP leader Atishi and other party members participated in the discussions held at the residence of Congress leader and convener of the Congress National Alliance Committee, Mukul Wasnik, in the national capital to formulate the seat-sharing arrangement.

After the meeting, Delhi Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj expressed optimism, stating that they are confident about finalizing the seat distribution within the INDIA bloc soon. He acknowledged the challenges in candidate selection, especially when multiple parties are involved, but emphasized that these issues can be resolved, anticipating unity among the parties on a common platform.

Meanwhile, BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla sarcastically commented on the AAP-Congress meeting, suggesting confusion within the INDIA bloc. Poonawalla predicted that both parties would soon claim, ‘Ek tha INDI gathbandhan’ (Once upon a time, there was the INDIA alliance). He criticized the alliance, pointing out contradictions and highlighting the lack of a finalized agenda and logo.

As the countdown to the Lok Sabha polls begins, the INDIA bloc is actively engaging in discussions on seat-sharing, with the allocation of seats becoming crucial for Congress, particularly after recent electoral setbacks. The political landscape in India is witnessing significant changes as the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, with the INDIA consortium gearing up to challenge the established National Democratic Alliance. However, the bloc faces challenges, including finalizing seat-sharing arrangements and deciding on a prime ministerial candidate, while the BJP is already implementing strategies for the upcoming elections.