As India transitions into a new phase of coalition governance, the BJP-led NDA is preparing to form the government following its victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. With negotiations ongoing with allies over the distribution of ministries, significant developments are emerging:
Swearing-In Ceremony: Narendra Modi is expected to take the oath as India’s prime minister for a historic third consecutive term on June 9 (Sunday), according to sources. The ceremony was previously scheduled for June 8.- Negotiations with Allies: The JD(U), led by Nitish Kumar, has made substantial demands, including the railways, finance, and agriculture ministries. Nitish Kumar, a key figure in the coalition, is likely to remain in Delhi until the oath-taking ceremony.
- Support from Allies: Amidst speculation about allies potentially switching sides, both Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Chandrababu Naidu and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar have provided written support to Modi. The TDP secured 16 seats in Andhra Pradesh, while the JD(U) won 12 seats in Bihar.
- TDP’s Demands: The TDP is anticipated to seek significant positions, including the Lok Sabha Speaker’s post and ministries such as road transport, rural development, health, housing and urban affairs, agriculture, jal shakti, IT and communications, education, and finance (MoS). They may also request five to six cabinet ministers and MoS positions.
- NDA Meeting: NDA MPs are scheduled to meet on June 7 (Friday) at Parliament’s Central Hall, marking their first gathering after the election results were announced on June 4. On June 5, NDA leaders will meet with Narendra Modi to strategize for government formation.
- Parliamentary Leadership: During the NDA parliamentary party meeting on June 7, PM Modi will be elected as the leader of the NDA parliamentary party. Senior BJP and NDA leaders will then meet with the president to inform her of this development, after which Modi will stake his claim to form the government as the NDA’s leader.
These updates indicate a bustling period of political activity as the BJP-led NDA gears up to form the new government and negotiate power-sharing arrangements with its coalition partners.
