Lalu Prasad Yadav Endorses Mamata Banerjee's Leadership of INDIA Bloc

New Delhi, India: In a significant shift within the Opposition camp, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has thrown his weight behind Mamata Banerjee as the leader of the INDIA bloc, a coalition of non-BJP parties. Lalu’s endorsement of the West Bengal Chief Minister marks a departure from his long-standing allegiance with the Gandhi family, as Congress’s struggles in key states like Maharashtra and Haryana seem to be prompting RJD to explore new leadership options.

Lalu, joined by leaders from Samajwadi Party (SP), Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (led by Sharad Pawar), expressed support for Mamata Banerjee to take the reins of the INDIA bloc, dismissing any objections from Congress. "Congress’s objection means nothing. We will support Mamata. Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership of the INDIA bloc," Lalu said on Tuesday.

This endorsement follows a series of developments where Mamata Banerjee had previously proposed Mallikarjun Kharge as the front's prime ministerial candidate, with backing from AAP's Arvind Kejriwal. Amidst growing concerns over Congress’s poor electoral performance, particularly in states crucial for the 2024 general elections, Lalu’s support signals the increasing fragmentation within the alliance and a possible shift in focus.

Sources reveal that many regional parties, including those in the INDIA bloc, have grown frustrated with Congress's tactics, particularly Rahul Gandhi’s focus on issues like the Adani scandal, which many believe do not resonate with voters. With key elections ahead, opposition leaders appear to be rallying around Mamata as a potential alternative to Congress’s leadership.