The BJP’s tally in the Rajya Sabha now stands at 86 seats, and the overall strength of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, has been reduced to 101 seats. Key Non-NDA Allies to Become Crucial The Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has experienced a significant shift in its position within the Rajya Sabha, with the retirement of four nominated members. This change has brought the alliance’s total seats below the crucial majority mark.
Key Points:
– BJP Tally Reduced: The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) now holds 86 seats in the Rajya Sabha.
– NDA Seats Drop: The overall strength of the NDA has decreased to 101 seats, below the majority mark of 113 in the 245-member House.
– Retiring Members: Rakesh Sinha, Ram Shakal, Sonal Mansingh, and Mahesh Jethmalani were the retiring members.
– Opposition Strength: The opposition bloc, led by the Congress, holds 87 seats in the Rajya Sabha.
Impact and Implications:
1. Reduced Majority in Both Houses: The BJP has 240 members in the Lok Sabha, which is also below the majority mark of 272. This shortfall means the ruling party lacks a majority in both houses of Parliament.
2. Dependence on Non-NDA Allies: To pass legislation, the government will now need to rely on support from non-NDA parties. This includes potential backing from former allies like the AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the YSR Congress in Andhra Pradesh, led by Jagan Mohan Reddy, who has previously provided issue-based support.
3. Withdrawal of BJD Support: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by Naveen Patnaik, has withdrawn its support following Patnaik’s defeat in the 2024 elections after a 24-year tenure as Chief Minister.
4. Upcoming Elections: The BJP’s reliance on external support will persist until they can fill the four vacant nominated seats and conduct elections for the 11 vacant seats later this year. These elections are crucial for states like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Telangana.
Facts and Figures:
– Total Strength of Rajya Sabha: Currently 225 members.
– Remaining Nominated and Independent MPs: NDA still retains the backing of seven nominated MPs and one independent member.
– Vacancies: There are 20 vacant seats in the Rajya Sabha, with 11 expected to be filled through elections this year. This includes vacancies in Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Tripura, as well as four seats from Jammu and Kashmir. Future Considerations:
– Crucial State Elections: Maharashtra and Haryana Assembly elections, along with Telangana elections, are pivotal. The Congress is aiming to secure enough seats to claim the Leader of the Opposition post in the Rajya Sabha, holding significant positions in both Houses of Parliament. This reshuffling in the Rajya Sabha underscores the dynamic nature of Indian politics and highlights the importance of strategic alliances and upcoming state elections in shaping the future legislative landscape.
