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Ahead of NDA talks, JDU will discuss seat negotiation

June 8, 2025, 2:18 am

With Bihar elections near, JDU plans internal meeting to finalise seat count before NDA alliance talks.

New Delhi: As the Bihar Assembly elections approach, preparations are intensifying across political circles. With an eye on the upcoming polls, the state-level leadership of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is expected to convene a crucial meeting in Patna soon to strategize their next steps. However, before this crucial meeting, the Janata Dal United (JDU) will first conduct its own internal meeting to finalise the number of seats it aims to contest in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, slated to take place in October–November this year.

According to a source within the party who spoke to The Sunday Guardian, the JDU leadership plans to hold a core committee meeting before participating in the scheduled NDA meeting later this month. The source stated that the party will determine, through collective consensus, the stance it will take during the NDA discussions. In the core committee meeting, a key point of deliberation will be how many seats the JDU will stake claim to within the alliance. Information suggests that this number is expected to fall between 100 and 110 seats. Notably, a previous core committee meeting had already taken place under the leadership of the Chief Minister.

Importantly, the JDU’s state leadership has already mapped out the seats falling within this range—constituencies where the party either currently has sitting MLAs or had previously secured victories in past elections. Once the core committee concludes its deliberations and reaches a decision, the matter will be taken up in the NDA-level meeting.

The source further revealed that several senior JDU leaders, including Union Minister Lalan Singh, JDU National President Sanjay Jha, Water Resources Minister Vijay Chaudhary, Energy Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Rural Works Minister Ashok Chaudhary, and JDU State President Umesh Singh Kushwaha, will be present at this important meeting. The seat-sharing discussion is expected to take place in the presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, during which the final number of seats JDU will demand in the NDA alliance will be decided.

According to political observers, the JDU has already drafted a list of constituencies and prospective candidates, based on assessments made during recently held district-level NDA conferences. The party leadership has reportedly decided that, unlike previous years, no formal applications will be accepted from aspirants wishing to contest the elections. Instead, local leaders have been tasked with evaluating potential candidates based on their political engagement and activity on the ground and submitting those names to the party’s central leadership. Additionally, the party will ensure that local social dynamics and caste equations are taken into serious consideration during this evaluation. The leadership has emphasised that, while a candidate’s ground presence and winnability will be major factors, the party is firm on contesting no fewer than 100 seats in the upcoming polls.

Assam Assembly: Five Newly Elected MLAs to Take Oath in Today

November 29, 2024, 2:58 pm

Five newly elected MLAs from the recently concluded bye-elections in Assam will take their oaths as legislators of the Assam Legislative Assembly today. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at the Assam Legislative Assembly in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Among the newly elected members, three belong to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while one each represents the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL).

Samaguri assembly seat marks a historic win for the BJP

Notably, the Samaguri assembly seat marks a historic win for the BJP, as this is the first time a BJP representative will hold the seat. Diplu Ranjan Sarmah triumphed over Congress candidate Tanzil Hussain, the son of Congress MP Rakibul Hussain, by a margin of 24,501 votes. Additionally, BJP candidates Diganta Ghatowal and Nihar Ranjan Das secured victories in the Behali and Dholai seats, respectively.

In the Behali constituency, Diganta Ghatowal defeated Congress candidate Jayanta Borah by 9,051 votes, while Nihar Ranjan Das won the Dholai seat against Congress candidate Dhrubajyoti Purkayastha with a margin of 9,098 votes.

Meanwhile, AGP candidate Diptimayee Choudhury won the Bongaigaon seat, defeating Congress candidate Brajenjit Singha by a margin of 35,164 votes. In the Sidli seat, UPPL candidate Nirmal Kumar Brahma emerged victorious against Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) candidate Suddho Kumar Basumatary by 37,016 votes.

Despite contesting all five seats, Congress did not secure any wins in the bye-elections.

NDA committed to progress and empowerment of poor: PM Modi

October 18, 2024, 3:36 am

Asserting that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is committed to the national progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the meeting of NDA chief ministers was fruitful as the extensive discussions were held on aspects of good governance and ways to improve people’s lives during the meeting.

The five hours conclave, which followed the swearing-in ceremony of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for a second term, held political significance ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, as well as in the aftermath of recent polls in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir.

During the meeting, PM Modi underscored the importance of good governance and shared his vision for improving the lives of citizens across NDA-ruled states. In a post on social media platform X, he stated, “Chaired a meeting of NDA Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers. We had extensive discussions on aspects of good governance and ways to improve people’s lives. Our alliance is committed to furthering national progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden.”

The gathering brought together key figures from various NDA states, including Union Ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and BJP President J P Nadda, alongside prominent Chief Ministers. The agenda revolved around development issues, celebrating the ‘Amrit Mahotsav’ of the Constitution, and marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency—a period many view as an “attempt to murder” democracy.

After the discussions, BJP National President J P Nadda elaborated on the outcomes of the meeting, revealing that six proposals were discussed and unanimously passed. “Terming it as the biggest non-Congress congression, the PM emphasized that through governance, people’s problems should be resolved. He introduced the focus on ‘Pro-people, Pro-governance – P2G2’ to take it forward. Today, 17 CMs and 18 Deputy CMs of NDA-ruled states participated,” Nadda stated.

According to Nadda, the Prime Minister remarked that for the first time since independence, the oath ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir was conducted in accordance with the Indian Constitution, whereas previously it followed the Constitution of Jammu & Kashmir. During the meeting he said that, “ Union Minister Amit Shah proposed that in 2025, we would reflect on how democracy was undermined during the Emergency. Next year, we will commemorate the 150th birth anniversaries of Birsa Munda and Sardar Patel, as well as the 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee”

Whereas, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu highlighted our strides towards a self-reliant India, while Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh reviewed our progress under the Digital India initiative.

One of the significant proposals was introduced by Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, highlighting the BJP’s success in Haryana, attributed to PM Modi’s policies.
Nadda noted, “BJP received robust support from farmers, youth, and athletes in Haryana,” indicating the party’s growing influence among key voter demographics.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also proposed to celebrate the ‘Samvidhan Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ in 2025, reflecting a continued emphasis on constitutional values and democratic principles.

Echoing the sentiments of unity and optimism, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar remarked, “We have full confidence; we have done good work. The meeting was very good. The PM gave four hours and listened to everyone; he also spoke what was on his mind. Now, everyone will work accordingly.”

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated, “This meeting offered a fresh perspective on development and cooperation across our respective states for the future. The Prime Minister has assigned us several important tasks.”
As the NDA positions itself for the forthcoming electoral challenges, this meeting serves as a platform for strategic discussions and a show of strength. ahead of crucial elections.

Is India’s Fourth Party System Still Standing Post-2024 Elections?

September 30, 2024, 3:50 am

India’s fourth party system, marked by the dominance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), remains largely intact despite the 2024 elections signaling a shift back toward coalition politics. While the BJP has lost its absolute majority and now depends on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners, several key features of the fourth party system still persist.

Presence of a Dominant Party

The BJP, which emerged as a dominant force in 2014 by securing a parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years, saw a decrease in its seat count in 2024 from 303 to 240. However, its national vote share dropped only marginally, from 37.3% in 2019 to 36.6% in 2024, signaling that its popularity remains largely intact. This makes the BJP the only true pan-Indian party alongside the Congress, with the former retaining a central role in shaping the electoral landscape.

BJP’s Central Role and Political Reach

The BJP’s reach extends beyond national politics into state-level governance, where it currently holds 43% of all chief ministerial positions across 13 states, a stark contrast to its 17% share in 2014. Additionally, the BJP controls 38% of all members of legislative assemblies (MLAs) in India, further reinforcing its political influence. In the Rajya Sabha, the party’s position remains strong, with 96 members, holding a slim majority through its NDA allies.

Fragmentation and Competition

While the number of political parties contesting elections has increased significantly, the BJP’s centrality has limited fragmentation. The effective number of parties (ENP) based on votes in 2024 remained at 5.3, close to 2019 levels, showing that political competition hasn’t dramatically intensified. However, the ENP for seats rose to 4.2, reflecting the resurgence of regional players and coalition-building.

Nationalisation of Politics

The nationalisation of Indian elections, which became a hallmark of the fourth party system post-2014, was somewhat reversed in 2024, with a more federalised and state-centric electoral contest. Despite the lack of a unifying national wave like in 2019, the BJP still managed to expand its footprint across different regions, even gaining ground in southern and eastern India.

Caste and Social Dynamics

The 2024 elections also saw a significant shift in the social composition of MPs, particularly in the Hindi belt, where Other Backward Classes (OBC) representation surged to nearly one in three MPs. This represents a historic high, even as upper and intermediate castes have seen their share fall to 39%.

Conclusion

While the BJP has faced electoral setbacks and the resurgence of coalition politics, its dominant role at the national level remains intact. The future of India’s fourth party system will largely hinge on Narendra Modi’s continued appeal, the cohesion of the opposition INDIA alliance, and the BJP’s ability to maintain its national and state-level strength.

AAP MPs to boycott President Murmu’s address to Parliament

June 27, 2024, 10:27 am

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s three-day CBI remand in the Delhi Excise Policy case prompted the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to announce that its MPs would boycott President Droupadi Murmu’s upcoming address to Parliament. This marks the first such address under the third National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. Following the President’s speech, both Houses of Parliament will discuss a motion of thanks.

AAP leader Sandeep Pathak emphasized the importance of upholding the supremacy of the President and the Constitution, especially in the face of perceived injustice. He stated, “Today we will protest in the Rajya Sabha against the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and we will boycott the President’s address.” Pathak clarified that while AAP will boycott, discussions with other INDIA alliance parties regarding similar protests have not taken place.

Meanwhile, the Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi ordered Kejriwal’s CBI remand until June 29, 2024, granting limited visitation rights and allowing him to carry prescribed medications. During the court proceedings, Kejriwal denied allegations made by the CBI against him involving his colleague Manish Sisodia, asserting their innocence and condemning media attempts to tarnish their reputation.

In a separate development, the Delhi High Court intervened by staying a bail order issued by the trial court for Kejriwal, citing procedural concerns under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

US NSA Jake Sullivan To Visit India As PM Modi Prepares For Third Term

June 6, 2024, 4:45 pm

The White House announced on Thursday that US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will visit India to discuss shared US-India priorities as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to take the oath for his third consecutive term. The visit comes in the wake of the historic victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in India’s general election.

President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed Sullivan’s upcoming trip during a congratulatory phone call from Biden to Modi. The White House released a readout of the call, highlighting the leaders’ conversation.

“President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India to congratulate him and the National Democratic Alliance on their historic victory in India’s general election,” the statement read. “The two leaders also discussed National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s upcoming travel to New Delhi to engage the new government on shared US-India priorities, including the trusted, strategic technology partnership.”

Although the exact dates for Jake Sullivan visit have not been announced, it is expected to occur shortly after Modi’s swearing-in ceremony. Both leaders emphasized their commitment to deepening the US-India Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership.

“The two leaders emphasized their commitment to deepening the US-India Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership and to advancing their shared vision of a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” the statement added.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude for President Biden’s warm congratulations and his appreciation for Indian democracy during their phone conversation on Wednesday. Modi took to social media platform X to share his thoughts.

“Happy to receive a call from my friend President @JoeBiden. Deeply value his warm words of felicitations and his appreciation for the Indian democracy. Conveyed that the India-US Comprehensive Global Partnership is poised to witness many new landmarks in the years to come. Our partnership will continue to be a force for global good for the benefit of humanity,” Modi wrote.

Earlier in the day, President Biden used X to congratulate PM Modi and the NDA on their election victory. He acknowledged the growing friendship between India and the US.

“Congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the National Democratic Alliance on their victory, and the nearly 650 million voters in this historic election. The friendship between our nations is only growing as we unlock a shared future of unlimited potential,” Biden posted.

Sullivan’s upcoming visit marks a significant step in reinforcing the strategic partnership between the US and India, focusing on shared priorities and the advancement of a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Introducing Seven Independent Winners

June 6, 2024, 11:29 am

In the forthcoming 18th Lok Sabha, a total of 526 candidates will represent the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which secured 292 seats in the recently-concluded general elections, and the Congress-led INDIA bloc, which obtained 234 seats. The remaining 17 Members of Parliament (MPs) are not affiliated with either bloc, with seven of them contesting and winning as independents.

The seven independent winners are Amritpal Singh, Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, Patel Umeshbhai Babubhai, Mohamad Haneefa, Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav, Vishal Patil, and Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Rashid Engineer. Notably, two of them, Amritpal Singh and Rashid Engineer, are currently incarcerated.

Here is the list of from where each of these independent candidate contested:

Amritpal Singh: Khadoor Sahib (Punjab)
Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa: Faridkot (Punjab)
Patel Umeshbhai Babubhai: Daman and Diu (Daman and Diu Union Territory)
Mohamad Haneefa: Ladakh (Ladakh Union Territory)
Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav: Purnia (Bihar)
Vishal Patil: Sangli (Maharashtra)
Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Rashid Engineer: Baramulla (Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory)

Here’s a brief profile of each independent winner:

Amritpal Singh: Leader of pro-Khalistan outfit Waris Punjab De, currently detained in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail under the National Security Act (NSA).
Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa: Son of Beant Singh, one of the bodyguards involved in the assassination of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1984, with a family legacy in politics.
Patel Umeshbhai Babubhai: Social worker who defeated sitting BJP MP Lalubhau Babubhai Patel in Daman and Diu.
Mohamad Haneefa: Former district president of the National Conference, securing Ladakh seat, historically won by independents.
Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav: Merged his Jan Aadhikar Party (JAP) with the Congress, contested independently after the party allotted Purnia seat to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD).
Vishal Patil: Grandson of former Maharashtra chief minister Vasantrao Patil, rebelled against Congress after Shiv Sena (UBT) fielded its candidate.
Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Rashid Engineer: Currently detained in Delhi’s Tihar Jail on terror-funding charges, arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2019.

Why Do You Doubt?” Chandrababu Naidu Asserts His Loyalty to NDA

June 6, 2024, 11:15 am

Chandrababu Naidu, positioned as one of the kingmakers following the recent elections, has reiterated that his Telugu Desam Party (TDP) remains a steadfast member of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Amid speculations of opposition attempts to sway him towards the INDIA bloc, Naidu’s assertion comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anticipated government formation on Saturday.

Participating in a crucial meeting at Prime Minister Modi’s residence, Chandrababu Naidu expressed optimism, describing the discussions as fruitful. Addressing queries about TDP’s alliance status, he emphasized the collective effort in contesting elections, dismissing any doubts about the party’s allegiance to the NDA.

The Lok Sabha elections saw the BJP falling short of a majority, securing 240 seats in the 543-member Parliament. However, with the support of its allies, the NDA surpassed the 272 mark, clinching 293 seats compared to the INDIA bloc’s 234.

Chandrababu Naidu and Janata Dal United leader Nitish Kumar, both seasoned coalition politicians, have emerged as pivotal figures in the current political landscape. Their participation in the NDA meeting signals solidarity with the BJP ahead of Saturday’s oath ceremony.

Reports suggest that Naidu and Kumar have provided written support to PM Modi, amidst speculations of opposition attempts to engage them in forming an alternative government.

In addition to Naidu and Kumar, other NDA partners including Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde, JDS leader HD Kumaraswamy, Janasena’s Pawan Kalyan, LJP’s Chirag Paswan, and NCP’s Praful Patel attended the meeting. They collectively endorsed PM Modi as the leader of the alliance, further solidifying the NDA’s unity.

US NSA Sullivan Plans India Visit as Narendra Modi Eyes Third Term

June 6, 2024, 6:00 am

In Washington, DC, US President Joe Biden engaged in a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s forthcoming trip to New Delhi, amidst extending congratulations to Modi on his success in the Lok Sabha polls. President Biden, in a statement from the White House, hailed the victory of Modi and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in India’s general elections, applauding the massive turnout of nearly 650 million voters, marking it as the largest democratic exercise in history.

Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening the US-India Comprehensive and Global Strategic Partnership, emphasizing their shared vision for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, they discussed Sullivan’s upcoming visit to engage with the new Indian government on mutual priorities, including the strategic technology partnership.

During a subsequent telephonic conversation, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for President Biden’s warm congratulations and appreciation for Indian democracy, underscoring the enduring partnership between India and the US as a force for global welfare. Modi, in a social media post, emphasized the promising future of the India-US Comprehensive Global Partnership and its positive impact on humanity.

President Biden, likewise, conveyed his felicitations to Modi and the NDA through a social media platform, recognizing the significance of their victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the growing friendship between the two nations.

The 2024 Lok Sabha election results, declared by the Election Commission of India, revealed the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in 240 constituencies and the Congress party’s success in 99.

Modi’s consecutive triumphs in the Lok Sabha polls garnered well-wishes from leaders worldwide, including those from neighboring countries like Maldives, and nations such as Israel, Ukraine, and Italy, reflecting the international acknowledgment of his electoral success.

Is Political Stability Driving The Indian Stock Market? Sensex And Nifty Surge After Naidu’s NDA Commitment

June 5, 2024, 1:52 pm

The Indian stock market witnessed a significant surge today, following an initially lukewarm opening. Strong support from bullish investors emerged after TDP leader N Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed his party’s commitment to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) post-Lok Sabha election results.

Market Rally Driven by Political Clarity

Naidu’s statement, “TDP is firmly with the NDA,” came as a relief to investors. His affirmation dispelled widespread rumors that had caused uncertainty in the Indian stock market after the BJP failed to secure an absolute majority, falling short by around 20 seats. This clarity led to a robust recovery in the markets, with investors engaging in bottom fishing at lower levels.

Indices at New Highs

The Nifty 50 index reached an intraday high of 22,445, marking a rise of over 2%. Meanwhile, the BSE Sensex climbed to an intraday peak of 73,851, a 1.90% increase from its previous close of 72,079. The Bank Nifty index also surged, touching 48,000 shortly after Naidu’s declaration.

Expert Insights

Avinash Gorakshkar, Head of Research at Profitmart Securities, highlighted the impact of political uncertainty on market performance. “The Lok Sabha Election results were below market estimates, which had anticipated a strong BJP-led government for a third term. The absence of an absolute majority raised doubts among investors, which were alleviated by Naidu’s statement.”

Despite the positive market response, experts advised caution. Sumeet Bagadia, Executive Director at Choice Broking, emphasized that the breach of the 22,100 to 22,200 mark by the Nifty 50 should not be viewed as a definitive trend reversal. “We need to wait for some more time, as the market may become bullish once the 50-stock index breaches its crucial hurdle of 22,500 on a closing basis,” he noted.

Naidu’s Commitment to NDA

Addressing the media after the BJP-led NDA secured a historic third consecutive term, Naidu reiterated his support for the alliance. “Andhra Pradesh voters have given a verdict for a better Andhra, and both TDP and BJP will work together to meet their expectations,” he stated.

Today’s market rally underscores the influence of political stability on investor confidence. While the positive momentum is encouraging, market analysts urge traders to proceed with caution and monitor key resistance levels for a clearer trend indication.

Chirag Paswan Plans To Establish Government Under PM Modi’s Leadership

June 5, 2024, 1:32 pm

Chirag Paswan, the leader of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), stated that the National Democratic Alliance remains “unified” and is poised to establish the government with PM Narendra Modi at the helm. He expressed gratitude to the public for the success of the five seats his party contested in the Lok Sabha elections.

Chirag Paswan said, “People of Bihar have instilled their trust in our party and given us a mandate on all the 5 seats we contested… We promise to fulfill our responsibilities. PM Modi showed his faith in a party with a single MP and gave us 5 seats and we won all 5 of them.”

He added, “NDA stands united. The day is not far, when NDA partners will form a government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi… We will analyze our shortcomings and we will sit together and discuss it. In 2029 Lok Sabha elections, NDA will win all 40 seats in Bihar.”

The leader of LJP (Ram Vilas) had a meeting today with Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar at his residence. During the meeting, he commended the leadership of Nitish Kumar and PM Modi for the NDA‘s impressive performance in Bihar.

“Today was dedicated to congratulating the Chief Minister for bolstering our coalition and attributing the success of the NDA in Bihar to PM Modi and Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Our party MPs met him to convey congratulations, and gratitude, and seek blessings as we head to Delhi for the NDA meeting,” Paswan stated.

PM Narendra Modi secures a third term, relying on support primarily from JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu in his coalition. The 2024 Lok Sabha election results were announced on Tuesday, with the BJP winning 240 seats compared to its 2019 tally of 303.

The Congress saw significant growth, securing 99 seats. The INDIA bloc surpassed 230 seats, challenging expectations. In Bihar, the BJP-led NDA performed well, winning 29 seats out of 40. BJP and JDU each won 12 seats, while LJP (Ram Vilas) claimed all five seats it contested. RJD and Congress secured four and three seats respectively. Chirag Paswan won the Hajipur constituency with a margin of 1,70,105 votes, continuing his father Ram Vilas Paswan’s legacy against RJD candidate Shiv Chandra Ram.

INDIA Bloc And NDA Hold Strategy Meetings Post-Surprising Lok Sabha Election Results

June 5, 2024, 12:28 pm

A day after the unexpected Lok Sabha election results, both the INDIA bloc and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have convened meetings with their top leaders and allies to plan their next steps.

With the BJP falling short of a majority, it now depends heavily on its allies. In contrast, the Opposition’s alliance, having secured more seats than anticipated, is hopeful of forming a government if it can persuade some of the BJP’s allies to join them. Reports indicate that the INDIA group has already approached several of these leaders.

The BJP secured only 240 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, 32 seats short of a simple majority. The INDIA bloc, exceeding expectations with over 230 seats, defied poll predictions that suggested they would perform similarly to 2014 and 2019. This situation has compelled the BJP to rely on allies such as Nitish Kumar, N Chandrababu Naidu, and Eknath Shinde for government formation.

The TDP, JD(U), Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Chirag Paswan-led LJP (Ram Vilas) won 16, 12, seven, and five seats, respectively, making their support crucial for forming the next government.

N Chandrababu Naidu is set to hold a press conference in Delhi today, arriving in the national capital at 2:30 pm. According to HT sources, he is likely to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following the election results, Naidu congratulated PM Modi, stating, “Thank you, @narendramodi Ji! On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, I congratulate you on the NDA’s victory in the Lok Sabha and Andhra Pradesh Assembly Elections. The people of Andhra Pradesh have given us a remarkable mandate, reflecting their trust in our alliance and its vision for the state. Together with our people, we will rebuild Andhra Pradesh and restore its glory,” he wrote on X.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, known for his political shifts, will also be in the national capital today to attend the NDA meeting at Prime Minister Modi’s residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, scheduled for around 3:30 pm.

Simultaneously, the INDIA bloc will meet in Delhi. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, whose DMK won 22 seats, will travel to the national capital for this meeting. The INDIA bloc meeting is scheduled to take place at around 6 pm.

‘Paltu Kumar’ Memes Gain Prominence Amidst Lok Sabha Election Outcome

June 5, 2024, 11:03 am

Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal United (JDU) chief Nitish Kumar finds himself at the center of attention as the opposition INDIA alliance defies exit polls and appears poised to win 231 seats, just 31 short of the required majority to form the government. Nitish Kumar’s reputation for switching alliances has earned him the nickname ‘Paltu Kumar’, drawing widespread scrutiny amidst the closely contested election results.

According to trends released by the Election Commission, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is leading on 294 seats, while the INDIA bloc maintains a narrow lead with 231 seats.

Reports have emerged suggesting that Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) patriarch Sharad Pawar has reached out to Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu in an attempt to persuade them to switch allegiances to the INDIA alliance. Kumar’s JDU is currently leading on 15 seats in Bihar, while Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has secured 16 seats in Andhra Pradesh.

The potential addition of 31 seats from Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu could significantly alter the balance of power in favor of the opposition. Although both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Sharad Pawar have denied the reports of alliance negotiations, social media platforms are buzzing with memes and discussions surrounding Nitish Kumar’s political maneuvers.

Here are some funny memes of Nitish Kumar:

Behind the Scene pic.twitter.com/vcrS8iT1cZ

— Nehr_who? (@Nher_who) June 4, 2024

#NitishKumar #ElectionResults pic.twitter.com/XErG3SYU3x

— mememandir (@mememandir) June 4, 2024

Nitish Kumar? pic.twitter.com/PTR9WDWyjm

— Pulkit?? (@pulkit5Dx) June 4, 2024

Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu doing this to BJP will feed generations pic.twitter.com/GPG3hQNlXx

— Don’t overwork yourself (@Duk_dard_kasht) June 4, 2024

Nitish Kumar, a socialist leader who began his political journey during the anti-Emergency movement, has become synonymous with political flip-flops, alternating between alliances with the Congress and the BJP over the past few decades has earned him a nickname ‘Paltu Kumar’.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi appears poised for a third term, all eyes remain on Nitish Kumar as the political landscape continues to evolve amidst the ongoing election drama.

Stock Market Today: Sensex And Nifty Plummet As NDA Falls Short Of 300-Seat Mark

June 4, 2024, 12:03 pm

The stock market faced a significant downturn on Tuesday as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) struggled to secure a decisive lead in the ongoing national election results. By 11 AM, it became clear that the BJP on its own is unlikely to cross the halfway mark, although it is certain that with allies, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will form the government at the center. The idea of a coalition government led by the BJP has led to widespread market anxiety and a sharp decline in stock indices.

Since the opening of trading on Tuesday, investor sentiment has been notably bearish. The Bombay Stock Exchange’s benchmark Sensex plummeted by 3905.15 points. Similarly, the Nifty 50 index suffered a substantial drop, falling 1061.05 points by 11 AM. The decline in stocks was widespread, affecting various sectors including banking, automotive, and technology. Major companies like Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank, and Infosys saw significant drops in their share prices, contributing to the overall market downturn. Shares of Bank of Baroda, PNB, SBI, IndusInd Bank, Bandhan Bank, and Axis Bank slipped up to 9 percent, compared to a 5 percent decline in the Bank Nifty index.

Market analysts attribute the steep decline to political uncertainty. The BJP, which has been the dominant force in Indian politics for the past decade, is seen as a pro-industry party whose policies have generally favored economic growth and market stability. The failure to secure a clear majority by the BJP on its own raises concerns about the formation of a stable government and the continuation of economic reforms. Sunil Shah, a market expert, commented, “Yesterday, the market acted on the outcome of exit polls. The early trends are showing that the gap or the lead is not that big, so the market is reacting to that. The market will remain volatile throughout the day.”

In addition to political uncertainty, global market trends and domestic economic indicators have also played a role in the current market volatility. Rising oil prices, inflation concerns, and recent global economic slowdowns have compounded the impact of election jitters on investor sentiment. As the day progresses, the market will remain focused on the final tally and the BJP-led NDA’s final majority figure.

Grand Show of Strength in Varanasi: PM Modi Meets NDA Allies After Filing Nomination

May 14, 2024, 2:59 pm

After filing his nomination, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bharatiya Janata Party’s NDA allies outside the collectorate office in Varanasi, showcasing the strength of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Prime Minister Modi filed his nomination papers from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh, seeking a third consecutive term and aiming for victory with a record margin. Accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and other NDA leaders, PM Modi demonstrated unity within the alliance.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri expressed optimism about India’s economic prospects under PM Modi’s leadership, stating, “We are the world’s largest democracy. We are also the mother of democracy. Our third term will start on June 4. In the coming 2-3 years, our economy will be at number three.” LJP-Ram Vilas Chief, Chirag Paswan, emphasized the importance of NDA unity, stating, “Our strength is our unity. Today the entire NDA participated in the nomination process of PM Modi. This unity will help us achieve our target of winning more than 400 seats.”

Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan expressed his admiration for PM Modi and confidence in the NDA’s electoral prospects, while Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde hailed PM Modi’s nomination as historic and predicted his victory for the third time. President of Rashtriya Lok Morcha, Upendra Kushwaha, and other leaders echoed similar sentiments, expressing optimism about the NDA’s performance in the elections.

PM Modi, the incumbent MP and BJP’s candidate, filed his nomination papers at the district magistrate’s office. Varanasi will vote in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha polls on June 1, with the counting of votes scheduled for June 4. The presence of 25 NDA leaders at the nomination event underscored the alliance’s strength and solidarity.

Varanasi, a stronghold of the Bharatiya Janata Party and PM Modi, will witness a significant contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi won the constituency convincingly in both the 2014 and 2019 general polls. This time, he faces Congress candidate Ajay Rai, the opposition INDIA bloc’s joint nominee against him. The UP Congress chief, Rai, previously contested against PM Modi in Varanasi in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls, finishing third on both occasions. In the 2019 elections, PM Modi secured victory with over 6,74,664 votes and a vote share of 63.6 percent.

BJP’s Sanjay Seth Officially Files Nomination for Ranchi Lok Sabha Seat

May 2, 2024, 6:28 pm

Sanjay Seth applied to run as a BJP candidate for the Ranchi Lok Sabha seat in the 2024 general elections. The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, was with him when he submitted his nomination form. Chief Minister Dhami also led a roadshow today and said he’s hopeful that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will win all 14 seats in Jharkhand.

Across the nation, there’s widespread support for Narendra Modi to serve as Prime Minister for a third term. In Jharkhand, the sentiment is leaning heavily in favor of the BJP. People are enthusiastic and optimistic. The NDA is expected to secure victory in all 14 seats in Jharkhand, according to Chief Minister Dhami. He expressed confidence that Sanjay Seth will break records and emerge victorious in Ranchi to represent the constituency in Parliament. “Modi ji is set to become Prime Minister for the third time,” he affirmed.

CM Dhami posted a letter to X, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He mentioned that various government schemes are helping people from all walks of life, including tribal communities, to become more involved in society. He also expressed confidence that the people of Jharkhand will play a significant role in the upcoming Lok Sabha election to achieve the goal of “Abki Baar 400 Paar.” Additionally, he noted that voting will take place in Ranchi on May 25.

Elections in Jharkhand are scheduled to take place in four phases: May 13, 20, 25, and June 1. In the 2019 elections, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured 12 seats in Jharkhand, with the BJP winning 11 seats. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and Congress each won one seat, according to ANI.

The general elections are being conducted in seven phases over a six-week period from April 19 to June 1. Polling for the first and second phases occurred on April 19 and April 26, respectively. The next round of voting is scheduled for May 7, with the results set to be announced on June 4

‘Great Response’: PM Modi Thanks Voters After Lok Sabha Phase 1 Polling

April 20, 2024, 1:26 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to voters for their enthusiastic participation in the first phase of the Lok Sabha election 2024 and voiced confidence in the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) strong victory on June 4.

Taking to the social media platform X, the Prime Minister stated, “First phase, great response! Thank you to all those who have voted today. Getting EXCELLENT feedback from today’s voting. People across India are voting for NDA in record numbers.”

First phase, great response! Thank you to all those who have voted today.

Getting EXCELLENT feedback from today’s voting. It’s clear that people across India are voting for NDA in record numbers.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 19, 2024

The first phase of the Lok Sabha elections witnessed a voter turnout of over 60%, covering 102 seats across 21 states and Union territories. Despite sporadic incidents of violence, including in West Bengal’s Coochbehar and an accidental explosion in Chhattisgarh that resulted in the death of a CRPF jawan, the Election Commission reported that polling remained largely peaceful.

Prime Minister Modi’s NDA is aiming for a stronger majority for a third consecutive term, while the opposition INDIA bloc is hoping for a resurgence after setbacks in the 2014 and 2019 elections.

Assembly elections were also held concurrently in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. The Election Commission noted that the tentative figure of voter turnout till 7 pm is expected to rise as reports from all polling stations are gathered, with voters arriving at polling stations until the end of polling allowed to cast their votes.

Minor glitches were reported with electronic voting machines (EVMs) in some areas, but overall, voting proceeded smoothly. In West Bengal’s Cooch Behar seat, however, there were incidents of violence between workers of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with both parties lodging complaints related to poll violence and voter intimidation.

Prominent candidates in the first phase included Union ministers Nitin Gadkari and Sarbananda Sonowal, Gaurav Gogoi of the Congress, and DMK’s Kanimozhi. Voting also took place in several other states and Union territories, with the Election Commission deploying over 18 lakh polling personnel across 1.87 lakh polling stations.

PM Modi Pens Letters to BJP, NDA Candidates ahead of LS Polls

April 18, 2024, 3:49 am

To mark Ram Navami, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned letters to every Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate participating in the Lok Sabha elections set for the first phase on April 19, 2024.

This initiative is a part of the BJP’s efforts to ensure that the Prime Minister’s message reaches every individual within a constituency.

The Prime Minister’s emphasis is also on ensuring that this letter reaches individuals in regional languages. Candidates were pleasantly surprised to receive this letter and have committed to ensuring that it reaches every voter in their constituency.

In a letter directed to BJP candidate Kuppuswamy Annamalai for the Coimbatore Lok Sabha seat, Prime Minister Modi praised Annamalai’s choice to shift from a prestigious position to committed public service. Modi recognized Annamalai’s significant contribution to bolstering the BJP’s grassroots presence in Tamil Nadu.

“It is a pleasure to write to you on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami. I hope that this letter finds you in good health. I congratulate you on your decision to leave a prestigious job and commit to serving the people directly. You have been truly instrumental in fortifying the BJP’s grassroots presence across Tamil Nadu, championing critical issues including law enforcement, governance, and youth empowerment. Coimbatore stands to gain immensely from your committed leadership,” PM Modi said.

Expressing faith in Annamalai’s capability to represent Coimbatore in Parliament, PM Modi highlighted the significance of the impending elections.

“With the blessings of the people, I am confident that you will reach the Parliament. Team members like you are a great asset for me. As a team, we will leave no stone unturned for the welfare of the people of constituency and the country,” read the letter.

“Through this letter, I would like to tell the people of your constituency that this is not an ordinary election. Families across India, especially the senior members, would remember the difficulties they have gone through in the 5-6 decades of Congress’ rule. In the last 10 years, the quality of life of every section of society has improved, with many of these troubles removed. Yet, a lot more is still to be done and this election will be decisive in our mission to ensure a better life for everyone,” it added.

He encouraged voters to contemplate the advancements made over the past decade and reiterated the BJP’s dedication to continually improving the quality of life for all segments of society.

“This election is an opportunity to connect our present with a bright future. Every vote that the BJP gets will go towards forming a stable government and impart momentum in our journey to become a developed nation by 2047,” the letter read.

“At this crucial time, I also urge you and all other workers to make full use of the last few hours of the election campaign. At the same time, I also request you to take care of your health and that of other people around you,” the letter added.

In his correspondence, Prime Minister Modi urged candidates and party workers to escalate their campaign efforts while prioritizing their health, especially considering the challenging summer conditions.

“I appeal to the voters to cast their votes early in the morning, before the heat sets in,” the letter said.

Wrapping up with a message of reassurance and determination, Prime Minister Modi reiterated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of citizens and extended his heartfelt wishes for the success of all BJP and NDA candidates in the forthcoming elections.

“As a candidate of the BJP, I urge you to convey my assurance to each voter that every moment of my time is dedicated to the welfare of my fellow citizens,” the letter read.

“I send you my wishes for your victory in the election. It is Modi’s Guarantee that we will work 24 by 7 for 2047!,” the letter concluded.

NDA Ally AMMK Reveals Lok Sabha Candidates for Tamil Nadu

March 24, 2024, 12:11 pm

Following the conclusion of a seat-sharing agreement with the BJP, the Amma Makkal Munnettra Kazagam (AMMK) revealed its candidates for the upcoming seven-phased Lok Sabha elections on Sunday.

The AMMK general secretary, TTV Dhinakaran, declared the names of the party’s candidates for the Lok Sabha elections.

As per an agreement within the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the AMMK will vie for two seats in the southern state governed by the DMK. Dhinakaran will personally contest the Theni Lok Sabha seat, while Senthilnathan has been selected as the NDA candidate for Trichy.

“AMMK will contest two seats in Tamil Nadu as a partner in the NDA. I would contest Theni while Senthilnathan would file his nomination papers from Trichy,” Dhinakaran told reporters on Sunday.

“Let the people now decide who wins from Theni. I got the name ‘Makkal Selvan’ (people’s hero) from Theni. I have worked in the constituency before and the people, here, know me well.”

“My dear friend O Pannerselvam’s son, OP Ravindhranath, is the present MP (from Theni). When I came here last month, they (the sitting MP and his father) asked me to contest this seat. The people, too, requested that I fight the Lok Sabha elections from Theni. Then I spoke with Pannerselvam and other leaders in the alliance. OPS eventually decided to set aside the seat for me and contest Ramanathapuram instead. He would win and so would I,” Dhinakaran said.

In addition to the AMMK, the NDA has also forged a seat-sharing pact with the Ambumani Ramadoss-led Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. The voting for all 39 seats in Tamil Nadu is scheduled to take place in the initial phase of the general elections on April 19.

During the 2019 general elections, the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which included the Congress, VCK, MDMK, CPI, CPI(M), IUML, MMK, KMDK, TVK, and AIFB, secured a resounding triumph by clinching 38 out of the 39 seats in the state.

In 2019, the DMK secured victory in 23 Lok Sabha seats, while the Congress won 8 seats and the CPI secured 2 seats.

PM Narendra Modi greets former PM, HD Deve Gowda

December 21, 2023, 4:07 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met MLA HD Revanna, Janata Dal (Secular) Karnataka leader HD Kumaraswamy, and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda today in the nation’s capital. The previous prime minister’s outstanding contribution to the development of the nation was commended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Prime Minister posted on X, “Always a delight to meet former PM HD Deve Gowda Ji, HD Kumaraswamy ji and HD Revanna Ji.”
“India greatly cherishes Deve Gowda Ji’s exemplary contribution to the nation’s progress. His thoughts on diverse policy matters are insightful and futuristic,” PM added.
Taking to the X, HD Kumaraswamy thanked PM Modi and said, “I was blown away by the bond between them and the love and trust they both have for each other. The meeting at the Prime Minister’s office in the Parliament House was very memorable. I am thankful for the love, trust and affection shown towards us by the honourable Prime Minister.”
“Former minister HD Revanna, former MP Kupendra Reddy, MP Prajwal Revanna, MLA CN Balakrishna were with him,” Kumaraswamy added.

This meeting is significant because it takes place a few days after Deve Gowda and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge met “surprise” on December 15. Notably, ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Janata Dal (Secular) of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda formally joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and on September 22 announced an alliance with the BJP in Karnataka.

Congress Shifts INDIA Bloc Meeting to Later Date in December, Coordination Meet Set to Continue

December 5, 2023, 2:12 pm

The INDIA alliance, consisting of 28 opposition parties, including the Congress, has rescheduled its crucial party head meeting to the third week of December following reports of discord within the bloc. Earlier, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had called for a meeting scheduled for Wednesday, which received a lukewarm response from several front-line leaders.

stated that she was unaware of the scheduled meeting and would have attended if informed. Furthermore, key opposition leaders such as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will be unable to attend for a variety of reasons.

On Wednesday, parliamentary leaders from the INDIA bloc will convene at Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence for a coordination meeting. Gurdeep Singh Sappal, Kharge’s coordinator, confirmed the meeting and announced that the next meeting of Party Presidents and India Alliance Heads would be held in the third week of December to accommodate all members.

The agenda is expected to focus on crucial topics, notably seat-sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, which are merely four months away. The meeting holds significance for Congress, particularly after losing key states in recent Assembly polls.

However, Congress might face challenges within the bloc, especially with the Samajwadi Party expressing discontent and accusing Congress of not fulfilling commitments during the assembly elections. The meeting’s success is crucial for Congress if it aims to present a formidable opposition against PM Narendra Modi and the BJP in the 2024 elections.

The India alliance aims to counter PM Modi’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and prevent its re-election in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Their previous meetings emphasized a united approach and collaborative contesting in the upcoming elections, aiming to adopt a spirit of cooperation for finalizing seat-sharing arrangements.