India, the world’s largest democracy, recently concluded its 2024 Lok Sabha elections, marking another significant milestone in its democratic journey. With a voter turnout of 643 million people, the elections were conducted in seven phases across the nation, reflecting the vibrant and participatory nature of Indian democracy. Despite the challenges and complexities of such a vast electoral exercise, the process was executed smoothly, culminating in a pivotal moment for the country’s political landscape.
Election Overview
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections were a battleground for major political alliances, primarily the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA alliance. The election results, announced by the Election Commission of India on June 4, 2024, revealed a competitive political climate with significant gains and losses on both sides. The NDA secured a total of 293 seats, comfortably surpassing the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha, while the BJP itself won 240 seats. On the other hand, the Congress emerged victorious in 99 constituencies.
Formation of the Government
Following the announcement of the results, the newly elected MPs of the NDA convened to elect Narendra Modi as their leader, paving the way for his third term as Prime Minister. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for June 9, 2024. Senior alliance members, including TDP’s N Chandrababu Naidu and JD(U)’s Nitish Kumar, joined Modi in presenting the list of parliamentarians supporting him to President Droupadi Murmu.
Despite falling short of the 272-majority mark on its own, the BJP’s reliance on its NDA allies ensured a stable government formation. The BJP’s tally of 240 seats, although lower than its 2019 performance, combined with the support of its allies, underscores the continued influence and leadership of the NDA in Indian politics.
Strength of the Opposition
A notable aspect of the 2024 elections is the strengthened opposition, particularly with the formation of the INDIA alliance. This coalition has emerged as a formidable force, signalling a more robust and dynamic parliamentary democracy. The opposition’s strong presence is expected to foster more balanced and constructive debates in the Lok Sabha, enhancing the democratic process and ensuring greater accountability of the ruling government.
Modi’s Third Term
At the NDA parliamentary party meeting, a resolution was unanimously passed, electing Narendra Modi as the leader. Senior BJP leader Pralhad Joshi highlighted that 21 NDA leaders signed the resolution, which commended Modi’s efforts in nation-building, welfare initiatives, and development projects. In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the trust the nation places in the NDA, reflecting on the achievements of the past decade and expressing his commitment to continue working towards the country’s progress.
Modi stated, “The mandate of 2024 is strengthening one thing again and again: that in today’s scenario, the country trusts only NDA. When there is such unbreakable trust, it is natural for the expectations of the country to increase. I consider this good…I had said earlier too that the 10 years that we worked were just a trailer. It was not just an electoral statement; it was my commitment.”
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections have underscored the dynamic and evolving nature of Indian democracy. With the NDA set to form the government under Narendra Modi’s leadership for a third term, and a strengthened opposition ready to play a crucial role in the parliamentary process, India is poised for a period of intense political engagement. This election has not only highlighted the electorate’s trust in the NDA but also the importance of a strong opposition in ensuring a balanced and effective governance. As India moves forward, the collaborative efforts of both the ruling party and the opposition will be vital in addressing the nation’s challenges and aspirations, ultimately fortifying the democratic fabric of the country.
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