Differences in non-BJP camp family quarrel, enough time for Mamata to change mind: Margaret Alva

The Opposition was clear it does not want a one-party rule and that the Constitution has to be defended and democratic institutions protected, said 80-year-old Alva

New Delhi: The Opposition’s vice presidential candidate Margaret Alva Saturday described the prevailing differences in the non-BJP camp as a “family quarrel”, and asserted they are making efforts to unite for the 2024 challenge.

The Opposition was clear it does not want a one-party rule and that the Constitution has to be defended and democratic institutions protected, said 80-year-old Alva, who faces an uphill task in the August 6 vice presidential poll in which she is up against ruling NDA’s Jagdeep Dhankhar.

In an interview, the former governor said the “tragedy” of today’s democratic system is that the mandate of people does not prevail and muscle-power, money power, and threats change the composition of the elected framework.

Responding to frequent disruptions in Parliament, the multi-term parliamentarian said it is happening because the Chair is “unable” to work out compromises whereby the Opposition’s point of view is considered.

She wondered how a democracy could function when the government’s slogan seemingly is ‘my way or no way’.

On dynastic politics, Alva said there is nothing wrong in children of politicians coming in but they have to win elections and the confidence of people.

Alva also said she is “aghast” at the Trinamool Congress’ decision to abstain from the vice presidential poll as the party’s chief, Mamata Banerjee, has been leading the movement to unite the Opposition.

There is no way she can help the BJP win, Alva said. “There’s enough time for Mamata Banerjee to change her mind.