Mallikarjun Kharge Appointed INDIA Bloc Chief, Speculation Rises Over Lok Sabha Contest

Mallikarjun Kharge, the veteran Congress leader, has been named as the chief of the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) bloc, according to reports. INDIA is a collaborative effort by 28 opposition parties to challenge the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. Discussions among the INDIA alliance members were held in a virtual meeting where this decision was made. This appointment is expected to boost Kharge’s political stature in his home state of Karnataka.

However, there is speculation whether Kharge will contest in the Lok Sabha polls. It is known that Congress chief Sonia Gandhi wants him to contest, but Kharge, citing his age of 81, is not keen. Kharge suffered his first electoral loss in 2019 from Gulbarga against BJP’s Umesh Jadhav. Prior to that, he had an unbeaten record in 11 straight elections. Although he has been requested to contest from Uttar Pradesh or shift to Kolar, it is unclear if he will choose to do so.

If Kharge decides not to contest, it would leave him with more time to fulfill his responsibilities as head of the Opposition alliance. Congress leaders believe Kharge’s leadership will aid in consolidating SC/ST and minority votes in Karnataka. Additionally, they expect him to advocate for a caste census, which holds significance in the backward areas of the Hindi heartland.

Kharge’s influence extends beyond Karnataka, with Congress leaders claiming he has an impact over 47 seats in North India. His fluency in Urdu or Dakhni, combined with his Dalit identity, allows him to connect with a wider range of people. However, opposition leaders have mocked the Congress, accusing them of relying heavily on Kharge and D K Shivakumar while Chief Minister Siddaramaiah holds most of the power.