The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is reportedly preparing to expand its fold as part of a strategic move to strengthen its position in both houses of Parliament. According to recent political developments, there are strong indications that the DMK and the Shiromani Akali Dal might align with the BJP. Plus, a clear message has been sent to both factions of the NCP regarding their potential inclusion in the NDA following a formal unification. These shifts are being viewed through the lens of upcoming legislative challenges and the need for a two-thirds majority to pass significant bills.
The Strategic Importance of DMK
The possibility of the DMK and BJP coming together in the future has become a major talking point in political circles. Currently, the DMK holds a significant presence in Parliament with a combined total of 30 members across the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The changing political landscape in Tamil Nadu, particularly following the formation of a government under the leadership of Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, has prompted the DMK to reassess its political future and calculate potential gains and losses. With the next elections still 5 years away, the party is focused on maintaining its existence and preventing its workers and leaders from defecting to other parties. This has led to a situation where both DMK and BJP leaders have kept the doors for dialogue open.
Kanimozhi's Presence at the Speaker's Tea Party
A significant signal of this potential shift was observed during the conclusion of the Lok Sabha session, while while the majority of the opposition boycotted the Speaker's traditional tea party on Thursday, the DMK chose to attend, disregarding the opposition's stance. Kanimozhi, representing the DMK, was seen engaging in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and other NDA leaders. This interaction suggests that after losing power in the state, the DMK is keen on maintaining a functional relationship with the ruling party at the Center. Such a rapport could prove beneficial for the NDA government when seeking support for the Delimitation Bill and the Women's Reservation Bill.
Internal Debates Within the DMK
While the prospect of joining the NDA is being discussed, there are two distinct opinions within the DMK, while one faction is reportedly ready to offer issue-based support to the central government, fearing that a full alliance might erode the party's standing in Dravidian politics. On the other hand, some BJP leaders are also in favor of accepting only issue-based support, given the DMK's previously aggressive anti-Sanatan stance. The final decision regarding the DMK's formal entry into the NDA or its role in the central government will be made by the top leadership of both parties in the coming days.
The Unification of NCP and Central Participation
In Maharashtra, the political discourse is centered around the unification of the two NCP factions. While discussions about bringing the groups together have been ongoing since Ajit Pawar's tenure, they've gained momentum recently. The BJP has indicated that a merger would be beneficial for the state of Maharashtra, while sources suggest that the BJP has communicated to both factions that a unified NCP could become a part of the NDA and share power at the Center. During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Supriya Sule met Prime Minister Modi twice, while Sharad Pawar met him once. The BJP leadership wants both factions to unite and remain part of the government together. Responsibilities have been assigned to leaders in both Maharashtra and Delhi to facilitate this process. It's expected that the unified NCP could secure 2 ministerial positions in the next cabinet expansion, with the party reportedly showing interest in the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Cooperation.
Shiromani Akali Dal and the Punjab Elections
The relationship between the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal is also seeing a potential revival following a recent meeting between SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal and Prime Minister Modi. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal currently has only 1 MP in the Lok Sabha, an alliance could be mutually beneficial for the Punjab Assembly elections scheduled for next year. Following an attack on Sukhbir Badal in Nanded on Thursday, top BJP leaders, including the Prime Minister, called his wife and MP Harsimrat Kaur to inquire about his well-being. On top of that, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered an investigation into the attack, further signaling a softening of ties between the two former allies.