Cong cornered at INDIA bloc meeting

KNIVES were out at the meeting of the INDIA bloc on Saturday, where the Congress came under sharp criticism from several allies, including the SP, RJD, NCP (SP), NC, and the Left parties, over poor coordination and the party’s approach towards alliance partners.

- PREETHA NAIR

According to sources present at the meeting, the main bone of contention was the absence of the DMK, with several leaders urging Congress to take steps to bring the party back into the fold.

The sharpest criticism came from SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, who minced no words as he attacked the Congress for its failure to coordinate effectively with allies at the state level.

Raising the issue of the DMK’s absence, Yadav said that as the largest party in the bloc, Congress should be ‘magnanimous’ and display a ‘large heart’ in dealing with allies.