Modi 3.0: Naidu's TDP likely to get 4 ministers, Nitish Kumar's JDU two; names also locked

PTC Web Desk: In a significant development, sources have revealed that Chandrababu Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is set to receive four portfolios in Narendra Modi's new Cabinet. The Janata Dal (United) (JDU) will secure two ministerial berths.

Key Figures from TDP and JD(U)

Among the prominent figures from the TDP likely to feature in PM Modi's Cabinet are Ram Mohan Naidu, Harish Balayogi, and Daggumalla Prasad. On the JD(U) front, the proposed names include senior leaders Lalan Singh and Ram Nath Thakur. Lalan Singh, elected from Bihar's Munger constituency in the recent Lok Sabha Elections, brings substantial political experience to the table. Meanwhile, Ram Nath Thakur, a Rajya Sabha MP and son of the late Bharat Ratna recipient Karpoori Thakur, adds depth to the JD(U) representation.

On the JD(U) front, the proposed names include senior leaders Lalan Singh and Ram Nath Thakur

Decision at NDA Meeting

The allocation of Cabinet portfolios to TDP and JD(U) members was finalised during a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) meeting convened to discuss key appointments ahead of the government's swearing-in ceremony tomorrow.

TDP and JD(U) Demands

The TDP, having secured 16 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh, had expressed its desire for four ministerial positions and also sought the parliamentary speaker's post. JD(U), on the other hand, had requested two Cabinet berths following its victory in 12 seats.

Among the prominent figures from the TDP likely to feature in PM Modi's Cabinet are Ram Mohan Naidu, Harish Balayogi, and Daggumalla Prasad

Chandrababu  Naidu and Nitish Kumar: Kingmakers of the Coalition

Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar emerged as influential figures in the coalition discussions, particularly after the BJP fell short of the 272 seats required for a majority government. Despite the BJP-led NDA securing 293 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha, the involvement of Naidu and Kumar underscores their pivotal roles in shaping the coalition dynamics.

Return to Coalition Politics

The ongoing coalition negotiations harken back to pre-2014 electoral scenarios, characterised by alliance partners negotiating for positions and benefits. The talks signify a departure from the BJP's outright majority victory in 2014, with alliance dynamics playing a crucial role in government formation.

Speculation Surrounding Nitish Kumar

Amidst the coalition deliberations, speculation arose regarding a potential reunion between Nitish Kumar's JD(U) and the INDIA bloc. However, sources close to Kumar dismissed these rumours. Nevertheless, the BJP leadership was reportedly reminded of Nitish Kumar's previous withdrawal from the INDIA bloc due to delays in his appointment as its Convener.

Swearing-in Ceremony

Narendra Modi is scheduled to take oath for a third consecutive term on Sunday, marking a significant milestone akin to the tenure of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The swearing-in ceremony is set to witness the participation of leaders from neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, and Mauritius.

- PTC NEWS

Join Whatsapp Channel