The recent INDIA bloc meeting held on Tuesday revealed a surprising development with the proposed selection of Mallikarjun Kharge as the coalition’s prime ministerial candidate. Despite facing challenges in gaining a broader consensus within the INDIA alliance, Kharge’s caste, experience, and close association with the Gandhis lend credibility to his candidacy.
During the meeting, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal put forth Kharge’s name as the alliance’s prime ministerial candidate, as confirmed by MDMK chief Vaiko. Kharge, while maintaining an enthusiastic demeanor, tactfully avoided committing to the position. In a press conference following the meeting, he stated, “Let’s focus on winning first, and discussions regarding the prime ministerial candidate can take place later.”
All attention now turns to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati. If Mayawati supports the idea of having the country’s first Dalit prime minister, it would significantly boost the INDIA alliance’s prospects for the 2024 elections. Uttar Pradesh, a state where the BJP has secured a majority of seats in both 2014 and 2019, holds particular significance. Therefore, the consolidation of Dalit votes behind a single candidate could pose a challenge to the BJP’s aspirations in the Hindi heartland.
Kharge, known for his tenacity, has expressed his willingness to take on the leadership role. Interestingly, when Banerjee and Kejriwal proposed his name, the seasoned leader and 88th president of the AICC appeared somewhat overwhelmed but not opposed to the idea. Kharge reportedly addressed the INDIA bloc gathering, stating, “I have always been a fighter. I have never engaged in politics by emphasizing my own struggles or caste identity. My commitment lies in promoting equality, and throughout my life, I have fought for equal rights, not just as a representative of a particular caste. My primary focus is to defeat Modi, and discussions and decisions regarding the prime ministerial candidate will follow.”
However, the ability of Congress to surpass the 100-seat mark in the upcoming Lok Sabha is crucial. Both within and outside the INDIA alliance, there is a belief that the performance of Congress will greatly impact the 2024 General Elections. Can Kharge, with his influence and support, help Congress secure a significant number of seats from the five southern states and a Union Territory?
Kharge’s strengths lie in his achievements since being elected as the Congress president on October 26, 2022. He has steadily strengthened his hold over the organization, becoming a reliable figure for the Gandhis and establishing communication channels with major Opposition parties. His credibility and legitimacy have been further enhanced by his influence in Karnataka and Telangana.
As the face of Congress in the South, Kharge’s linguistic abilities are noteworthy, with fluency in eight languages, including impeccable Hindi. Additionally, he holds the distinction of winning elections for a record 10 consecutive times, making him one of the most prominent Dalit leaders in the country.
From the perspective of Congress, Kharge’s most significant accomplishment is bringing a sense of normalcy to the party’s functioning. Despite the party’s history of factionalism, sycophancy, and incompetence, Kharge has managed to avoid becoming a factional leader. As a seasoned politician, he has navigated the complexities of the grand old party with skill and tact.
However, he maintained a fair and cautious approach. For example, Kharge refused to engage in the political games that were being played in his home state of Karnataka before, during, and after the Karnataka polls. While the internal conflicts between party general secretaries Randeep Singh Surjewala and Jairam Ramesh became part of Congress history, Kharge prioritized the party’s interests and did not allow such enmities to harm it.
Opportunities:
Kharge’s extensive experience as an elected representative, leader of the Opposition in both houses of Parliament, Union minister, and state minister makes him an ideal candidate for the top position. His track record and expertise make him a strong contender, especially in a political landscape where the BJP is vulnerable. He could potentially emerge as a surprise winner in the realm of coalition politics.
Weaknesses & Threats:
Ironically, Kharge’s strength can also be seen as his weakness. While his caste identity may shield him from severe criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others, the presence of Brahmin and backward lobbies within the Congress and the INDIA bloc poses a significant challenge to his acceptability. Kharge would rely on the support and protection of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi to navigate the potential machinations of Akhilesh Yadav, Lalu Prasad, and Nitish Kumar.
Despite his remarkable energy, Kharge’s age, being on the wrong side of 80, is a concern. Additionally, his electoral base is primarily limited to his hometown of Kalaburagi (formerly known as Gulbarga). Critics argue that he lacks charisma, and his loss of his own Lok Sabha seat in 2019 further adds to these doubts.
The main threat lies in the potential resistance from the Gandhi family towards the emergence of another power center within the party. Furthermore, many anti-Congress parties may not extend their support to Kharge.
Kharge’s Ace in the Hole
In his capacity as Congress president, Kharge possesses a significant advantage that he can leverage to approach Nitish Kumar or Mamata Banerjee as the convenor of the INDIA alliance. The role of a convenor holds immense importance as they will effectively oversee the secretariat, manage the election process, and finalize a common minimum program.
Mamata finds hope in the historical precedents set in 1977, 1989, and 2004.
For other contenders and hopefuls, Kharge’s candidacy offers a glimmer of hope if the INDIA alliance manages to surpass the NDA in 2024. In 1977, Morarji Desai was not initially considered a strong contender. However, he surpassed two formidable claimants, Charan Singh and Babu Jagjivan Ram (a Dalit), to become the prime minister of a diverse Janata Party coalition.
Similarly, in 1989, Chaudhary Devi Lal was elected as prime minister by the National Front-Left Front alliance until he declined and named VP Singh as his successor.
In 2004, Sonia Gandhi was widely expected to become the country’s 13th prime minister within the Congress party, but she surprised everyone by nominating Dr. Manmohan Singh. Will the wise Kharge oblige Mamata or someone else in May 2024?