THE Lok Sabha poll outcome is a mandate against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and it is his ‘political and moral defeat’, the Congress said on Tuesday while announcing it will consult the I.N.D.I.A. bloc allies on whether to approach old partners JD(U) and TDP for Government formation. Addressing a joint press conference at the Congress headquarters here along with party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi said the I.N.D.I.A bloc allies would meet on Wednesday and take a call on its future course of action.

 

Asked if the Congress and its allies will approach parties that have been with them in the past but are part of the NDA now in trying to form a government, he said, “We won’t say anything without seeking the opinion of our allies. Our alliance will decide tomorrow and whatever they decide we will act on that,” Rahul Gandhi said when prodded further. Kharge, when asked about the I.N.D.I.A. bloc’s possibility of Government formation, said, “As long as we do not talk to alliance partners, and the new partners who may join, how can we say that? If I reveal all strategies here, Modi ji will become alert.” He said the election results are a victory for democracy and the people, who have given a clear message against PM Modi. “We humbly accept the mandate of the 18th Lok Sabha elections. This is the victory of the people. This is the victory of democracy.