In show of unity, PM to break bread with NDA partners today
NEWDELHI: In a first-of-its-kind initiative after wresting power in 2014, the BJP will hold a brainstorming session with its allies here on Monday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting 50-odd leaders from BJP and 31 allies of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over dinner to discuss achievements and challenges.
“This event will showcase the NDA’s expanse and its increasing clout in Indian politics,” a BJP office-bearer said. From PDP in Kashmir to IJK in Tamil Nadu, Shiv Sena in Maharashtra to Naga People’s Front in Nagaland; the Prime Minister and BJP president Amit Shah have invited presidents of all allies.
Except for assembly elections in Bihar and Delhi, the BJP had a dream run in elections held after the 2014 national polls. The BJP and its allies are in power in 17 states, including UP that it won with a three-fourths majority. The BJP has its CMs in 13 states.
“Despite having the big brother status in the NDA, we have cared for our allies. Monday’s event is a reflection of our commitment to a harmonious relationship with our allies,” a BJP office-bearer said.
The meeting will attempt to bury the differences that the BJP had with some of its allies, such as the Shiv Sena, and put up a united face. The Sena had threatened to boycott the meet if the ban on its MP Ravindra Gaikwad from travelling in airlines was not lifted before Monday.
Modi breaking bread with allies also comes ahead of presidential election in July. While the recent electoral victories have given the BJP an edge, it still has to depend on allies to get its candidates elected to President’s office.
The event also aims to take the fizz out of Opposition’s effort to cobble up an alliance against the NDA for the 2019 election.
Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had last week met senior leaders of communist parties to explore the possibility of a grand opposition unity to take on Modi.
PM NARENDRA MODI IS HOSTING 50ODD LEADERS FROM BJP AND 31 ALLIES OF THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OVER DINNER