Opposition Parties Uniting for a Coalition Government: Shashi Tharoor
Opposition Parties Joining Hands after Lok Sabha Polls: Shashi Tharoor
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has expressed confidence that opposition parties will come together after the Lok Sabha polls to form a coalition government. He believes that the people of India deserve a Prime Minister who is first among equals and listens to others. Tharoor argues that a coalition government is nothing to be afraid of, citing the better growth performance of the Indian economy under such dispensations compared to single-party governments.
The Need for Change and the BJP’s Loss of Grip
Tharoor views the upcoming elections as an opportunity for change, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lost its grip on the narrative. He believes that the Congress party and its allies will form the next government, emphasizing the advantages of a coalition government. Tharoor points out that coalition governments have a different functioning style compared to monolithic one-party governments. He criticizes the personality cult built around Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the autocratic tendencies of the BJP.
The Benefits of a Coalition Government
Tharoor highlights the advantages of a coalition government, stating that it prevents autocratic tendencies and requires the Prime Minister to consider the viewpoints of others. He argues that a coalition government would provide a balance of power and result in effective governance. Tharoor cites former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an example of a consensus builder who successfully managed a coalition government despite not having a majority. He also praises former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s economic goals and the growth period India experienced under his leadership.
Coalition Governments in Indian History
Tharoor acknowledges that coalition governments in India have had their challenges, such as the breakup of the UPA-1 coalition and the left quitting the government during UPA-2. However, he believes that the history of operating the parliamentary system in the Indian constitution has generally safeguarded the interests of the people. Tharoor reassures voters that coalition governments are nothing to be afraid of and emphasizes the importance of considering the values and candidates they are voting for.
Coalition Formation and Contradictions
Tharoor addresses the issue of contradictions within the India bloc, particularly the bitter exchanges between the Congress and the Left in Kerala. He points out that coalitions in India typically form after the polling, and it is not unusual for parties with differences to come together after the elections. Tharoor gives the example of Kerala, where the Congress and the Communists have been historical rivals but have formed alliances in other states like Tamil Nadu. He asserts that when the results are declared on June 4, all opposition parties, including the Trinamool Congress, will come together to prevent the BJP from coming to power.
Working Together for a Common Goal
Tharoor reveals that he has friends in parties not allied with the Congress who have expressed their willingness to work together after the elections. He believes that the hubristic narrative of the BJP will fade away after the first phase of the elections. Tharoor concludes by stating that the people of India are looking for a change in leadership and a government that exercises power responsibly and inclusively.
