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The resounding losses suffered by the Congress in the recent Bihar Assembly elections have triggered a serious conversation within the INDIA bloc: should Akhilesh Yadav step up as the alliance’s de facto leader?
The Case for Akhilesh Yadav’s Leadership
Congress’s Dismal Performance in Bihar
In the Bihar Assembly polls, Congress managed to win just six seats, a stark decline from its earlier standing.
This rout has fueled dissatisfaction within the opposition camp, raising questions about whether Congress can continue to lead the INDIA bloc.
Samajwadi Party’s Growing Weight
The Samajwadi Party (SP), led by Akhilesh Yadav, holds significant sway as one of the largest opposition parties in the Lok Sabha.
With 37 MPs from the SP, there is a growing argument that the bloc could benefit from a change in leadership dynamics.
Calls from Within the Alliance
A Samajwadi Party MLA, Ravidas Mehrotra, has publicly stated that Akhilesh Yadav “should lead the INDIA bloc,” noting that SP is capable of governing Uttar Pradesh on its own.
Such remarks reflect deeper undercurrents — internal voices are questioning whether Congress should continue as the face of the alliance.
Decline in Congress Enthusiasm
Akhilesh himself has on several occasions accused Congress of lacking the enthusiasm needed to nurture the INDIA alliance.
He has publicly stressed that Congress should play a more proactive role in uniting smaller parties and driving the bloc forward.
A Vision for Bihar’s Future
Speaking at rallies, Yadav has framed the INDIA bloc’s mission in Bihar as more than just political power — his message centers on social justice, reversing youth migration, ending “bundle-raj,” and delivering jobs and infrastructure.
He argues that under the INDIA bloc, policies could be reoriented to better serve marginalized communities and youth.
Support for Tejashwi Yadav
While calling for his own greater role, Akhilesh has also backed Tejashwi Yadav (RJD) as the INDIA bloc’s face in Bihar. He referred to Tejashwi as “the best face” for the state, praising his performance and promising full support from the SP.
This indicates that his leadership push might not be about overtaking all coalition partners, but repositioning the balance of power within the bloc.
Challenges to Akhilesh’s Leadership
Internal Resistance from Congress
Despite the murmurs, Congress remains a core member of the INDIA bloc. For Akhilesh to lead formally, Congress would need to cede influence — a politically risky move.
Alliance Unity at Stake
Other parties, including regional ones, may feel sidelined if one leader (even from a major opposition party) begins to dominate.
Public Perception
For the electorate, a leadership change might signal instability or desperation, especially after a big electoral loss. The INDIA bloc must manage optics carefully.
(FAQ)
Q1: Why are people suggesting Akhilesh Yadav to lead the INDIA bloc?
A1: Because of Congress’s poor performance in Bihar, voices within the opposition alliance argue that a more dynamic leader like Akhilesh Yadav could reinvigorate the bloc and serve as a stronger face against the BJP.
Q2: What has Akhilesh Yadav said about his own leadership ambitions?
A2: Akhilesh hasn’t explicitly declared he wants to replace Congress, but he has criticized Congress for lack of enthusiasm in alliance building. He has also expressed full support for Tejashwi Yadav in Bihar, making it clear that his bid is about leadership influence, not necessarily displacing others.
Q3: How did Akhilesh describe the problems in Bihar under BJP rule?
A3: He blamed the BJP for unchecked inflation, unemployment, and corruption. At rallies, he promised that an INDIA bloc government would check out-migration, ensure jobs, and end what he called “bundle-raj” (accusations of financial mismanagement or illicit bundling of money).
Q4: Is Congress likely to agree to this leadership shift?
A4: It would be politically difficult. Congress remains a key partner in the bloc, and giving up leadership could be seen as a major concession. Moreover, not all allies might support Akhilesh’s leadership due to regional power dynamics.
Q5: What impact could this shift have on the economy and youth employment?
A5: If Akhilesh leads and influences policy direction, the bloc may place greater emphasis on job creation, social justice, and economic reform, especially targeting youth, rural areas, and marginalized communities — which could shape future fiscal and development policies.
source credit : Saikat Kumar Bose
Published on : 17th November
Published by : RAHAMATH
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