West Bengal, 25 January, 24: In a surprising turn of events, TMC's Rajya Sabha leader, Derek O'Brien, has pointed fingers at Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, alleging that he is a major impediment to the success of the I.N.D.I alliance in West Bengal. Speaking to ANI, Derek O'Brien stated, "I.N.D.I alliance has two main detractors: BJP and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury. He speaks the language of the BJP. The three reasons for the alliance not working in Bengal: 1. Adhir Chowdhury, 2. Adhir Chowdhury, 3. Adhir Chowdhury."
The TMC leader expressed his frustration with Adhir Chowdhury, holding him solely responsible for the lack of cohesion within the alliance. Derek O'Brien emphasized the claim, repeating it three times for added emphasis. He accused Adhir Chowdhury of aligning with the BJP's narrative, creating discord within the I.N.D.I alliance.
However, Derek O'Brien's accusations triggered a swift response from the Congress camp. He pointed out that the TMC leadership had offered only two seats to Congress in the alliance. Interestingly, O'Brien revealed that additional seats could be considered if prominent Congress figures like Mallikarjun Kharge or Sonia Gandhi engaged in discussions with Mamata Banerjee.
Meanwhile, the internal strife within the I.N.D.I alliance is further highlighted by TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee's recent statement on Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra. TMC MP Sushmita Dev remarked on Mamata Banerjee's position, stating, "Since the beginning, Mamata Banerjee has made it clear that she had no information about the yatra..." This admission adds another layer of complexity to the dynamics within the alliance, showcasing internal tensions that need resolution for a unified front in West Bengal.