'Without Mamata di …': Mani Shankar Aiyar's advise to Rahul Gandhi on INDIA bloc leadership
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 23, 2026
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Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has called for a re-evaluation of Rahul Gandhi's leadership within the opposition INDIA bloc. Speaking to IANS, Aiyar emphasized that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is central to the survival and unity of the alliance, warning that without her, the "I," "N," "D," "I," "A" components of the bloc would dissolve. He advised Rahul Gandhi to allow leaders from smaller parties like the Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party to take charge of the alliance, as it is not his place to lead.
Reflecting on his political past, Aiyar revealed that he briefly joined Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress in 1997 but left after a few weeks due to differences over the party's identity. He also hinted at potential disciplinary action from the Congress party, stating he still considers himself a member despite reports of his expulsion. Aiyar's comments came days after expressing support for Pinarayi Vijayan, the Chief Minister of Kerala, and criticizing Rahul Gandhi's leadership style.
The tone turned confrontational when Aiyar dismissed Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera as "a parrot," not a representative of the party. In response, the Congress distanced itself from Aiyar's remarks, with Khera issuing a statement clarifying that Aiyar speaks in his personal capacity and has no official connection to the party.
Aiyar's comments highlight growing tensions within the opposition alliance, particularly over leadership dynamics. His call for smaller parties to take charge underscores the fragile unity of the INDIA bloc, which faces challenges from both internal disagreements and external pressures. This situation matters to readers interested in India's political landscape, as it sheds light on the struggles of opposition parties to maintain cohesion and challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dominance.
The episode also raises questions about Aiyar's role within the Congress and his influence on party strategy. His critique of Rahul Gandhi and open dissent against party leadership signal deeper divisions within the Grand Old Party, which has struggled to recover from losses in recent elections. As India heads toward crucial assembly elections in states like Gujarat and Haryana, the ability of opposition parties to present a united front will be critical to their chances of challenging the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026