Mamata Banerjee’s national ambitions suffered a setback on Wednesday as social activist Anna Hazare skipped a rally at which the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was to the launch the party’s nationwide campaign for the Lok Sabha polls.
The much-hyped ‘Janatantra Rally’ turned out to be damp squib, as Hazare did not turn up and Banerjee was left alone to address a very small gathering at the Ramlila ground.
Hazare’s absence fuelled speculation about the possible end of a partnership that began just three weeks ago. The anti-corruption crusader had supported and endorsed the West Bengal chief minister’s national ambitions.
Hardly a two thousand people showed up for the rally, leaving swathes of empty chairs across the sprawling venue. This was a rude shock for Banerjee, who generally draws huge crowds in West Bengal. Nonetheless, she attacked all her political adversaries.
She accused the Congress-led UPA government of pursuing anti-people policies and also took a dig at the BJP’s Narendra Modi, saying he had a “communal face”. She also questioned Modi’s claim of “good governance” in Gujarat, asking why the infant mortality rate in the state was above the national average.
Deccan Herald is on WhatsApp Channels| Join now for Breaking News & Editor's Picks