On Saturday, Sharad Pawar, the supremo of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), conveyed that the opposition alliance INDIA bloc, which he leads, does not necessitate the identification of a prime ministerial figure. Instead, he emphasized the importance of seeking votes in the collective name of the alliance.
Speaking to the media after a meeting regarding the INDIA bloc earlier in the day, Pawar articulated, "We don't think there is any need to project a face, and we should ask for votes in its name (INDIA). We believe we can give the country an alternative." He drew parallels with the political scenario of 1977 when Morarji Desai assumed the role of Prime Minister under the Janata Party umbrella without being explicitly designated as the prime ministerial face before the elections.
Addressing the selection of Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge as the Chairman of the INDIA bloc, Pawar remarked, "Some leaders suggested that Kharge should be the leader (President) of the India alliance group. Many agreed to the same... Also, it was suggested that Nitish Kumar become the convener; many suggested it. However, Nitish Kumar refused, saying for now it is not needed."
Moreover, Pawar, a prominent figure within the INDIA bloc, underscored that there is no discord within the alliance group, refuting reports that suggested otherwise regarding the prime ministerial face and discussions on seat-sharing.
Pawar assured that discussions on seat-sharing will commence shortly, stating, "We had a discussion that we all will take a decision on seat-sharing as soon as possible."
In addition, Pawar commented on the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, noting that it is being organized with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, given that the construction is still in progress. He addressed the criticism faced by the Congress for not participating in the inauguration, clarifying that it is because the temple is not yet complete. He emphasized that the inauguration is being orchestrated with the Lok Sabha elections in mind and emphasized that no one is opposed to the Ram temple.
