Narendra Modi Sworn in for Third Term After Narrow Victory

By Caroline Ameh

Narendra Modi, the leader of India’s Hindu Nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been sworn in as the country’s prime minister for a third consecutive term. The ceremony took place on Sunday, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the Indian president, amidst tight security measures in Delhi.

Modi’s BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured victory in the general election with 293 seats, a narrower margin than initially predicted by exit polls. Despite facing a resurgent opposition, which won 234 seats, Modi’s coalition managed to maintain its hold on power.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by thousands of guests, including heads of neighboring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. However, notable absences were observed, with Pakistan and China not sending representatives.

In his oath-taking speech, Modi pledged to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India, governing with fidelity to the constitution and the law. He emphasized his commitment to serving all citizens without bias or favoritism.

President Draupadi Murmu also administered the oath to members of Modi’s new cabinet during the ceremony. At 73 years old, Modi becomes only the second Indian leader to secure a third consecutive term, following in the footsteps of Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first prime minister.

Despite the BJP’s loss of its parliamentary majority, the NDA coalition secured support from key allies like the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United) JD(U) to form the government. However, the specifics of any concessions made to these allies remain unclear.

Addressing criticism from the opposition, Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to tackling corruption and poverty, prioritizing the empowerment of the poor and middle class. He also emphasized the alliance’s dedication to religious equality, amidst accusations of religious discrimination during the election campaign.

The opposition, led by the Congress party, has vowed to hold the government accountable and protect the constitution in parliament. Despite their electoral setback, they remain determined to fulfill their duties as the opposition alliance.