With an eye on the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party is intensifying its preparations and strategic discussions, laying the groundwork for a formidable political front. Ramesh Chennithala, the Western Maharashtra division in-charge of Pradesh Congress, addressed the media in Pune during a meeting presided over by State President Nana Patole. Key political figures such as Balasaheb Thorat, former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, opposition leader Vijay Wadettiwar, and former minister Naseem Khan were also in attendance.
Chennithala underscored the Congress’s eagerness to form an alliance with the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, revealing ongoing discussions with Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar. The goal is to unite all segments of society, and decisions on seat allocation will be disclosed in due course.
Responding to media queries, Chennithala criticized the BJP for using religious names for political gains, a strategy that the Congress does not endorse. He emphasized the importance of preserving India’s diverse traditions and condemned the BJP for exploiting religious sentiments for political advantage.
Chennithala addressed recent controversial statements made by BJP leaders, highlighting the Congress’s commitment to countering divisive tactics. Emphasizing unity and inclusivity, he cited successful collaborations with leaders like Prakash Ambedkar of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi.
The Congress is actively working to strengthen its position for the impending elections, engaging in ongoing discussions with potential allies and expressing a commitment to contest collectively against the BJP. Seat-sharing decisions are anticipated to be disclosed soon.
Nana Patole, the president of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, criticized the BJP and the Assam government for obstructing Rahul Gandhi’s temple visit, branding it as an act of arrogance and pride. He attributed the BJP’s actions to nervousness arising from the overwhelming support for the Bharat Jodo Yatra, accusing the BJP of selectively using religious names for political gain.
Patole stressed the Congress’s commitment to non-violence and truth, condemning the BJP’s exploitation of religious sentiments for political purposes.