Opposition Unity Tested Ahead of Monsoon Session: INDIA Bloc Meeting Faces Uncertainty

As the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins on Monday, a meeting convened by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has highlighted growing strains within the opposition INDIA bloc. The meeting, scheduled for 10 am in Kharge's chamber, is intended to coordinate strategies among opposition parties. However, recent electoral outcomes in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala have complicated relationships, prompting some parties to insist that the gathering should be termed an 'Opposition meeting' rather than an INDIA bloc meeting. According to sources, Congress leaders are uncertain about attendance, reflecting the post-poll tensions.

In a separate development, the Lok Sabha Secretariat has announced a change in the agency responsible for issuing passes to former Members of Parliament, officials, visitors, and media personnel. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which took over this responsibility two years ago after a security breach in the Lok Sabha, has been replaced by the Parliament Security Service (PSS) effective Friday. The decision, taken on Thursday, follows complaints from former MPs that CISF personnel were unfamiliar with them, causing delays in pass issuance. However, the CISF will continue to handle overall security of the Parliament premises.

Meanwhile, the Bihar Congress unit is witnessing speculation about a potential change in leadership. State unit President Rajesh Ram may be replaced, fueled by an informal dinner meeting called by All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge Krishna Allavaru. Notably, Ram was not invited to the gathering, which took place at the Patna residence of party leader Amit Kumar, a possible contender for the position. While sources indicate that no discussion about a leadership change occurred at the dinner, Allavaru received negative feedback regarding the state unit's digital membership drive, 'Sangathan Srijan Sathi'.