In a significant political move, Congress MLAs in Tripura decided to boycott the Rajya Sabha elections, a decision that has highlighted growing rifts within the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). This move comes as the CPI(M), the principal opposition party, expressed strong criticism. Jitendra Choudhury, the Leader of Opposition, questioned Congress' commitment to its anti-BJP stance, especially as it has opted out of the electoral contest for the lone Rajya Sabha seat. The BJP’s candidate, Rajib Bhattacharjee, is expected to win, with support from its alliance partners.

Bhattacharjee’s victory seems almost certain given the strength of the BJP-led alliance in the 60-member Assembly, where they hold a combined total of 47 votes. Meanwhile, the CPI(M), with 10 MLAs, and Congress, with only three, find themselves overshadowed in the race.

The growing divide between Congress and CPI(M) in Tripura could reshape future political strategies in the state. The situation underscores the shifting dynamics within the opposition and raises questions about their alignment in upcoming elections.

In the Rajya Sabha elections held recently in Tripura, a significant political rift within the INDIA alliance became evident. Congress legislators in Tripura chose to boycott the election, with no representatives casting their votes. This move led to sharp criticism from CPI(M) leader Jitendra Choudhury, who questioned Congress's commitment to opposing the BJP, especially when it failed to support the Left's candidate, Sudhan Das, for the Rajya Sabha seat.

The BJP, led by its state unit president Rajib Bhattacharjee, secured the victory with 47 votes, as the BJP, Tipra Motha, and IPFT (Indigenous People's Front of Tripura) combined their support. The Congress's abstention was particularly striking, given its position in the opposition, and raised questions about the unity and resolve of the INDIA bloc in Tripura. The rift has become a talking point, with some accusing Congress of political maneuvering and not supporting the larger anti-BJP sentiment within the alliance