India's opposition parties, united under the banner of the INDIA bloc, convened a virtual meeting on July 19, 2025, to strategize their approach for the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, which begins on July 21. The meeting, attended by leaders from 24 political parties, aimed to forge consensus on key issues to raise against the government and project a united front. However, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) distanced itself from the alliance.
Several critical issues were discussed during the meeting, reflecting the opposition's concerns about governance and national security. These included the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the Pahalgam terror attack, and the controversial Operation Sindoor. The opposition parties are strongly objecting to the SIR in Bihar, demanding it be scrapped due to upcoming assembly elections. They are also seeking answers regarding the Pahalgam attack and the losses suffered during Operation Sindoor.
Other key issues that were deliberated on included the government's foreign policy "failures", particularly concerning the US, China, and the Israel/Gaza situation, rising atrocities against Dalits, tribals, women, and minorities, and the Ahmedabad air crash. Concerns were also raised regarding US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, with opposition leaders questioning the government's silence on the matter.
Several leaders emphasized the importance of the Prime Minister's presence in Parliament to address these critical issues directly. They asserted that Parliament should be prioritized over foreign travel, highlighting the need for the government to be accountable to the people.
While the INDIA bloc seeks to present a united front, some internal dynamics were evident. Some leaders demanded that such meetings be held regularly. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah suggested raising the issue of full statehood for the Union Territory during the Parliament session.
The absence of key leaders like West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin from the virtual meeting was noted. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was also absent, signaling a departure from the bloc. AAP MP Sanjay Singh clarified that his party is no longer part of the INDIA bloc, stating that it was formed for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Despite these challenges, the INDIA bloc aims to hold the government accountable and ensure that Parliament functions effectively, allowing for debate on critical issues. The alliance seeks to reinforce its commitment to democratic values and constitutional integrity. The opposition parties are keen on discussions regarding India's foreign policy in light of international developments. The bloc plans to push for action against Justice Shekhar Yadav, against whom a motion has been pending since December 2024 for allegedly delivering a hate speech.
Looking ahead, the INDIA bloc is planning an in-person meeting in August to continue strategizing. The alliance aims to consolidate their efforts and present a united front against the government during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
