Delhi, India – Narendra Modi, the leader of the Hindu Nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been sworn in as India’s prime minister for the third consecutive term, solidifying his position as one of the country’s most influential political figures.
The official ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Indian president’s official residence, where thousands of guests gathered to witness the historic event. Among the attendees were heads of neighboring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, excluding Pakistan and China.
Security was heightened in Delhi during the inauguration, with over 2,500 police officers deployed around the venue and the declaration of a no-fly zone to ensure the safety of all attendees.
In his address, Modi emphasized his commitment to upholding the sovereignty and integrity of India, promising to govern with true faith and allegiance to the constitution. He vowed to administer justice to all citizens without bias, in accordance with the law.
During the ceremony, President Draupadi Murmu swore in a council of ministers who will serve in Modi’s new cabinet, highlighting the collaborative effort required to govern the diverse nation effectively.
Modi’s re-election marks him as only the second Indian leader to win a third consecutive term, following in the footsteps of Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first prime minister. Despite challenges, including losing its parliamentary majority, Modi’s BJP-led National Democratic Alliance secured the necessary seats with the support of key allies.
The opposition INDIA alliance, led by the Congress party, has voiced concerns over the election results, viewing it as a mandate against Modi’s government. However, Modi remains resolute in his leadership, expressing determination to eradicate corruption and poverty while prioritizing the empowerment of the poor and middle class.
Looking ahead, Modi and his cabinet face the task of addressing various issues, including allegations of hate speech, mistreatment of minority groups, and the suppression of political opposition. The journey ahead will require a delicate balance between upholding democratic values and enacting policies that benefit all citizens of the diverse nation.