Mamata uses social media to build rapport with regional leaders

Banerjee's attempt to reach out to the regional political parties is being seen in the backdrop of speculation about the emergence of a wider political coalition at the Centre before the 2019 LS polls

Kolkata, April 20: In an apparent attempt to strengthen ties with prominent political leaders, especially those ranged against the Bharatiya Janata Party,West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has started following many of them on Twitter, often exchanging pictures and pleasantries.

Recently, Banerjee re-tweeted a pictorial post of ex-Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav where they are seen together and expressed her pleasure at meeting the Samajwadi Party leader.

"Missed this tweet a few days ago. It was so nice meeting you in Delhi recently. Thanks," Banerjee tweeted.

The two leaders, who share a good political bonding, also exchanged pleasantries on the occasion of Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year on April 15 on social media.

"Happy Poila Baisakh! Wishing you a delightful and fulfilling year," Yadav wrote, while Banerjee warmly reciprocated the greetings on the same day. "Thank you Akhilesh for your greetings on Poila Baisakh. So nice of you. Warmly reciprocated," she tweeted.

Since the past few days, Banerjee has also started following Bahujan Samaj Party, BSP chief Mayawati, DMK leader M.K. Stalin and the AIADMK's official Twitter handle.

"Mamata Banerjee is currently the only 'brave face' in Indian politics who can challenge Modi or lead an allied front to contest against the BJP. She is also trying hard for a coalition of opposition parties. But whether it would materialise or not depends on several simultaneous equations," political analyst Udayan Bandopadhyay said.

IANS