Modi Set for Historic Third Term as PM After Securing Naidu and Kumar's Support; Oath on Saturday

The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured 293 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, surpassing the majority mark of 272, ensuring Narendra Modi's third consecutive term as Prime Minister. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday. Modi was unanimously chosen as the NDA leader, with alliance members commending his leadership and vision for 'Viksit Bharat', emphasizing their continued partnership in this goal.

NDA leaders convened at Modi's residence earlier today to review the election results and discuss government formation. Following this meeting, a delegation of senior BJP and NDA figures planned to meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan to stake their claim to power. Key figures in this delegation include Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Chandrababu Naidu and Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar, whose parties won 16 and 12 seats, respectively, crucial for maintaining the NDA’s majority.

Despite speculation that Naidu and Kumar might be approached by the opposition INDIA bloc, which secured 232 seats (40 short of the majority), the BJP has obtained written support from both leaders. Modi highlighted the significance of the TDP and JDU in his victory speech at the BJP headquarters in Delhi.

As the results became evident, there were rumors that the Congress-led INDIA bloc might court Naidu and Kumar to form an alternative government. Both leaders are reported to have various demands, including special status for their states and specific ministerial positions.

The opposition INDIA bloc, defying exit poll predictions, presented a substantial challenge to the BJP, marking the first major contest since the Modi wave of 2014. The Congress party achieved its best performance since 2009, winning 99 seats, a notable improvement from 52 seats in 2019 and 44 in 2014.

In preparation for the transition, Modi met with President Murmu to resign, pending the formation of the new government. He chaired the final cabinet meeting of his second term and downplayed any concerns about the election results, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to good governance.

Addressing a jubilant crowd at the BJP headquarters, Modi expressed gratitude for the continued support from the Indian people and reiterated his commitment to fulfilling their aspirations, highlighting the achievements of the past decade and promising continued progress.