A day after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced that the Trinamool Congress would contest the general elections independently, the party squarely blames Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury for the fallout.
Derek O’Brien Attributes Alliance Failure to Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien specifically points to Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury as the primary reason for the alliance breakdown. He accuses Chowdhury of speaking in a manner aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and holding press briefings to demean Mamata Banerjee.
Chowdhury Accused of Working Against Alliance Interests
O’Brien suggests that Chowdhury is actively working against the alliance in favour of the BJP. He claims that while the voice is Chowdhury’s, the words are dictated by the BJP leadership in Delhi. O’Brien highlights instances where Chowdhury endorsed the Enforcement Directorate’s actions against Trinamool Congress and held press conferences critical of Banerjee.
Trinamool Congress Hints at Future Support
While indicating that it will contest the elections alone, the Trinamool Congress hints at potential support for the Congress if it manages to defeat the BJP in the general elections. O’Brien states that post-elections if the Congress plays its role and defeats the BJP on a substantial number of seats, the Trinamool Congress would consider joining forces with them for the Constitution and plurality.
Congress Attempts to Mend Relations with Banerjee
In response to the rift, Congress leaders like Jairam Ramesh attempt to mollify Mamata Banerjee, stating that the INDIA bloc cannot be imagined without her. The Congress has been making efforts to repair the strained relationship with Banerjee.
Banerjee Firm on Independence for Trinamool Congress in Bengal
Despite Congress’s attempts at reconciliation, Mamata Banerjee reiterates her decision for the Trinamool Congress to go solo in Bengal. She expresses no intention of having any relation with the Congress in the state and warns against interference.
Rahul Gandhi’s Yatra in Bengal Amidst Tensions
As Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra enters Bengal, he emphasizes the INDIA bloc’s collective fight against injustice. This occurs amid claims by Banerjee that the Congress did not inform her about the Yatra, further intensifying tensions between the two parties.
Jairam Ramesh Acknowledges Mamata Banerjee’s Importance
Jairam Ramesh acknowledges Mamata Banerjee’s significance, describing her as one of the most experienced and charismatic chief ministers in India. He expresses optimism that any differences between the TMC and Congress will be resolved satisfactorily.
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