NDA Elects Modi to Stake Claim for Government Formation; Rajnath, Shah, Nadda Tasked with Partner Talks
A day after the BJP lost its majority but the NDA secured 293 seats in the new Lok Sabha, the alliance elected Narendra Modi as its leader and decided to stake claim to form the government. Modi assured coalition partners that the NDA would work with renewed strength towards achieving the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
Steps Towards Government Formation
On Friday, Modi is expected to lead the NDA to Rashtrapati Bhavan to stake their claim to form the government. President Droupadi Murmu dissolved the 17th Lok Sabha on the advice of the Union Cabinet, as per Rashtrapati Bhavan’s statement. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi tendered his resignation, which President Murmu accepted, asking him to continue as caretaker PM until the new government assumes office.
Meetings and Discussions
The newly-elected NDA MPs will hold a meeting on Friday. June 9 will also see the swearing-in of ministers in Andhra Pradesh’s TDP government in Amaravati, with Modi potentially attending the ceremony. Discussions about the central government formation will involve key NDA leaders, including TDP’s N Chandrababu Naidu and JD(U)’s Nitish Kumar.
Modi has appointed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President J P Nadda to negotiate with coalition partners. Although Naidu has not yet confirmed whether the TDP will join the government or provide outside support, sources suggest that negotiations are ongoing. Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) and LJP(R) leader Chirag Paswan are also in discussions for key Cabinet positions.
Key Developments and Expectations
The TDP is reportedly interested in the Speaker post in the Lok Sabha, but no commitment has been made by the BJP. In its first meeting, the NDA passed a resolution emphasizing its commitment to serving the poor, women, youth, farmers, and deprived sections of society. Modi highlighted the historic nature of the mandate, marking the first time in 60 years that a government is returning for a third consecutive term.
In his address, Modi criticized the opposition for attacking institutions, stating that personal attacks on him were acceptable but institutions should not be undermined. NDA partners praised Modi’s vision for a developed India and his role in enhancing India’s global standing.
Security and Logistics
A security meeting was held to discuss preparations for the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Around 10,000 invitations are being printed, with an estimated 8,500 guests expected. Security arrangements are being coordinated among various agencies, ensuring entry only for those with special parking passes from Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Concluding Remarks
After the meeting at Modi’s residence, Naidu met BJP leader Piyush Goyal for a brief discussion. The new NDA is expected to appoint a convener and hold regular coordination meetings to ensure cohesive governance.
The NDA’s resolution affirmed its united fight in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections under Modi’s leadership and highlighted the country’s development in the past decade due to pro-people policies. The alliance remains committed to raising living standards and preserving India’s heritage.
