Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s sharp critique of the INDIA opposition bloc has triggered a fresh political storm, exposing internal disagreements while giving the BJP fresh ammunition to mock the alliance. Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit, Abdullah said the opposition grouping was “on life support,” reviving debates about the bloc’s coherence after a series of electoral setbacks.
Abdullah argued that the alliance’s strategic missteps including pushing Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar toward the NDA and failing to accommodate the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha in seat-sharing talks reflected deeper organisational weaknesses. Comparing the bloc to a patient repeatedly jolted back to life, he said poor results, especially in Bihar, keep dragging it “back into the ICU.”
His remarks drew an immediate reaction from allies. RJD leader and Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha criticised Abdullah for making public comments that could demoralise the alliance, saying responsibility “does not end with taunting.” He reminded Abdullah that as a key partner, he too shares the obligation of strengthening the coalition.
The Congress, however, downplayed the controversy. Party MP Manoj Kumar said Abdullah remained a committed member of the alliance and was simply voicing concerns to ensure corrective steps. He asserted that the National Conference would “never join the BJP,” adding that Abdullah’s sweeping win in the Jammu and Kashmir polls reflected public trust in the INDIA bloc’s vision.
The BJP, meanwhile, seized the moment. Senior leader Shahnawaz Hussain declared the alliance “already dead,” claiming it lacked both leadership and direction after the Lok Sabha elections. “A tribute should be paid to it,” he quipped.
As reactions continue to pour in, Abdullah’s comments have once again underlined the fragile unity of the INDIA coalition and handed the ruling party an opportunity to capitalise on the discord.
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