1. Sharad Pawar, NCP supremo, asserts INDIA bloc doesn’t need a designated PM face.
2. Emphasizes the alliance should seek votes in the name of INDIA.
3. Stresses the importance of presenting a collective alternative to the voters.
New Delhi, Jan 14: Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo and a key figure in the Opposition-led INDIA bloc, emphasized that the alliance doesn’t require a designated prime ministerial face.
Pawar stated that the INDIA bloc should seek votes in the name of the alliance itself, emphasizing the need to present a collective alternative to the voters.
Reflecting on the historical precedent of the 1977 Janata Party government, Pawar cited Morarji Desai, who became the Prime Minister without being projected as the face before the elections. The veteran politician believes that a similar approach can be adopted by the INDIA bloc.
Addressing the selection of Mallikarjun Kharge as the Chairman of the INDIA bloc, Pawar mentioned that some leaders suggested Kharge for the position, and many agreed.
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However, he also noted that Nitish Kumar declined the role of convener, stating that it is not needed for now.
Pawar dismissed reports of discord within the alliance over issues like the prime ministerial face and seat-sharing discussions. He expressed that there is no displeasure within the alliance group and highlighted that seat-sharing discussions will commence shortly.
Regarding the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, Pawar suggested that it is being organized with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, as the construction is still in progress.
He clarified that the criticism faced by Congress for not attending the inauguration was based on the incomplete status of the temple, and he emphasized that no one was against the construction of the Ram temple.
