NEW DELHI: The flight carrying former Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi had to be diverted and landed in Bhopal due to unfavourable weather conditions. The two leaders were returning to New Delhi after attending a meeting of opposition parties in Bengaluru.

A total of 26 opposition parties from across the country gathered in Bengaluru to discuss the upcoming general elections. The united front of the opposition is called INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance). Congress party plays a crucial role in the alliance. Aam Aadmi Party after receiving a positive response from Congress regarding a central ordinance against the Delhi government decided to join the opposition alliance.

In response to the opposition's unity BJP called for an urgent meeting in Delhi. It included representatives from 38 parties within NDA. Although local parties may have limited influence, they play a major role in determining victory in their respective regions particularly when facing a strong opposition challenge.