Election of Modi as Prime Minister in NDA alliance
In the NDA Alliance meeting held on March 7, Narendra Modi was unanimously elected as the Prime Minister by the parliamentary party. He is set to take the oath for the third time. Unlike the 2014 and 2019 elections, the BJP did not secure a majority on its own this time, necessitating support from allies such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) (JDU).
Challenges and Prospects for the Third Modi Government
The upcoming term is expected to be dynamic and challenging, with the central question being how Modi will manage to govern effectively with the NDA’s constituent parties. A BJP leader expressed confidence in Modi’s ability to maintain coalition harmony, citing his extensive experience in alliance politics.
Modi’s Role in Strengthening NDA
Reflecting on the 1990s, the leader highlighted Modi’s role as the BJP General Secretary, where he played a significant part in forming NDA governments in several northern states. In 1997, the BJP, under Modi’s organizational leadership, formed a government in Punjab in alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal. Similar alliances were successfully managed in Haryana with parties led by Bansi Lal and Om Prakash Chautala. Modi also collaborated with the National Conference Party in Jammu and Kashmir, aiding Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government.
Modi’s Influence in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Government
During Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure, Modi was instrumental in keeping the coalition intact. He maintained strong relations with key allies like Nitish Kumar, George Fernandes, Sharad Yadav, Jayalalitha, Mamta Banerjee, and Balasaheb Thackeray. The BJP-Janata Dal alliance, under his strategic influence, won 23 out of 26 seats in Gujarat during the 1989 elections.
Modi’s Unwavering Focus on Work
Modi’s commitment to his work is evident from his actions during the Emergency, where he engaged with multiple parties to strengthen the BJP’s position. His role was pivotal in bringing together the BJP-PDP coalition in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite criticisms from allies such as TDP President Chandrababu Naidu and JDU President Nitish Kumar, Modi has consistently prioritized party and government work over conflicts.
The Road Ahead: Coalition Governance
The upcoming term promises to be intriguing as Modi once again collaborates with coalition partners to govern. His ability to navigate the complexities of alliance politics and focus on the welfare of the people will be crucial in maintaining the NDA’s stability and effectiveness in governance.
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