The optics for Opposition unity are proceeding rather nicely specially with the Congress agreeing to support the Aam Admi Party on the controversial amendment moved by the Centre against the Delhi government. On the eve of the Monsoon Session, such coordination harbours well for the Opposition.
And this is despite the break-up of the NCP which has sent a jolt not just for Sharad Pawar, but also to the rest of the Opposition. The BJP is out on a mission to win allies and the Opposition needs to safeguard its flanks from possible attacks and lures (read ED and cabinet berths). For the BJP which is fighting off allegations of playing the Big Brother it is equally important to surround itself with allies, for it will be going into 2024 elections facing a two-term anti-incumbency. Of course, the Prime Minister still stands tall specially when compared to other Opposition leaders and he has the capability to carry the rest of the party on his shoulders. However, having said this, if the Opposition succeeds in making this an issue-based election instead of a personality driven one, then the BJP will need the help of other regional leaders, especially in the south and also other states like Punjab, Bihar, Haryana and J&K, which is why leaders from these states are being approached by the BJP.
It also remains to be seen if the BJP will bring in the Uniform Civil Code. If it does so, what impact will it have on its ability to win over allies? There is also the problem of the limited lures it can offer given that the elections are due next year. Each party will be focussing not on the promise of cabinet berths in this government, but as to how many seats the BJP can offer it during the next general elections. Already, the BJP leaders in Maharashtra are unhappy with the prominence being given to the Eknath Shinde and the Ajit Pawar factions. Hence, if the Opposition has a tough task ahead, so does the BJP.
