Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu reaffirm support to Modi, but suspense remains as NDA holds key meets

The alliance government has a history of fragility, having been formed and dissolved multiple times. Given Nitish Kumar’s reputation for political maneuvering, predicting the longevity of this government remains a challenge. The delicate balance of power and the demands of key allies will undoubtedly influence its stability.

Prabhav Anand 07 June 2024 08:13

After the Lok Sabha election results, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is gearing up for government formation.

However, doubts loom over the loyalty of key allies, Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu, as they hold the balance of power.

The NDA, having crossed the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member Lok Sabha, is critically dependent on its allies to form the government at the Centre.

While the BJP fell short of 33 seats in comparison to its 2014 performance, it still emerged as the single largest party.

Now, the focus shifts to the demands and expectations of its allies.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, a seasoned politician and leader of the Janata Dal (United), has reaffirmed his party's support to the NDA.

However, he expects significant concessions in return.

Here are Nitish Kumar's key demands:

Cabinet Berths: Nitish Kumar seeks two Cabinet berths and one Minister of State position for his 12 MPs. His priorities include the Railways, Agriculture, and Rural Development Ministries.

State-Specific Issues: Nitish Kumar wants the new government to address Bihar's specific needs, including job creation, infrastructure development, and financial assistance.

Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, has also reaffirmed his support to the NDA. His party won 16 Lok Sabha seats and swept the Andhra Pradesh Assembly polls.

Naidu's demands include:

Ministerial Berths: The TDP seeks five ministerial berths, including key portfolios such as Education, Health, Road Transport, and Highways. Naidu also eyes the Lok Sabha Speaker's post.

Andhra Pradesh's Interests: Naidu wants the Centre to provide financial assistance for building Andhra Pradesh's capital in Amravati. He also expects the government to fulfill its commitments made during the bifurcation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh.

Interestingly, both Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu faced criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah during election rallies.

They were labeled as "Paltu Chacha" (turncoat uncle) and accused of opportunism. Now, the tables have turned, with Modi seeking their support to form an alliance government.