Next Opposition meeting in Bengaluru on July 17-18 announces KC Venugopal

The Indian National Congress has declared that the next joint meeting of Opposition parties will take place in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on July 17-18, ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament.

The announcement was made by Congress' general secretary, KC Venugopal, who emphasized the determination to unite against what they perceive as "fascist and undemocratic forces" and present a bold vision for the country's progress.

Initially scheduled for July 13-14 in Bengaluru, the meeting was postponed and subsequently shifted from Shimla to Bengaluru, as stated by Sharad Pawar on June 29. The new date of the meeting coincides with NCP leader Ajit Pawar's decision to join the Maharashtra government led by the Shinde-BJP alliance, which occurred a day prior.

The previous opposition meeting was held in Patna, Bihar, on June 23, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. During the gathering, Kumar expressed unity among the leaders in their fight against the current regime at the center.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also mentioned that the forthcoming meeting in Bengaluru would finalize the details of the front. Despite differences between the Congress and AAP during the previous meeting, particularly regarding the Centre's ordinance in Delhi, the opposition parties are committed to finding common ground.

The upcoming monsoon session of Parliament coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a Uniform Civil Code and increased discussions on the matter. The opposition's joint meeting holds significance as it aims to provide a unified front against the ruling government, addressing key issues and presenting alternative perspectives.