Amit Shah Indicates Akali Dal’s Return to the BJP-Led NDA Coalition

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) open approach towards forming alliances, indicating ongoing discussions with the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for their potential re-entry into the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). At a recent event, Shah confidently projected a substantial victory for the BJP and its allies in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, anticipating over 400 seats out of 543 for the NDA, with the BJP alone securing 370 seats.

Expanding NDA with New and Old Allies:

During his speech, Shah touched upon the subject of various regional parties, including the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and the SAD, possibly joining the NDA. He humorously remarked, “We believe in family planning but not in politics,” emphasizing the party’s readiness to welcome new allies. Despite the SAD’s departure from the NDA in 2020 over the farm laws issue, Shah revealed that talks for their return were underway but not yet finalized.

Assertive Moves and Predictions for the Elections:

Shah also spoke about the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), asserting its implementation before the election, aiming to correct misconceptions and reassure that it is intended to provide citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries, not to take away any Indian’s citizenship. He also hinted at discussions with other parties like the TDP and the YSR Congress, suggesting significant political realignments ahead of the polls.

Upholding Coalition Dharma and Vision for Development:

The Union Minister stressed the BJP’s history of respecting coalition dharma, maintaining partnerships without seeking separations. He expressed confidence in the NDA’s victory, attributing it to the government’s developmental achievements and the opposition’s perceived inability to offer a viable alternative.

Critical Stance on Opposition and Assurance of Progressive Policies:

Shah criticized the Congress for its historical decisions and current narratives, particularly targeting Rahul Gandhi for his Bharat Jodo Yatra. He defended the timing of a white paper detailing the UPA’s alleged misgovernance, asserting the current administration’s success in revitalizing the economy and ensuring corruption-free governance.

On the controversial topics of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the Bharat Ratna awards, Shah advocated for the UCC as a step towards a secular society and defended the government’s choices for the Bharat Ratna, contrasting it with past practices. He avoided commenting on sensitive issues related to the Gyanvapi and Shahi Idgah mosque complexes, respecting their judicial consideration.

In conclusion, Amit Shah’s remarks underscored the BJP’s strategic preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, highlighting its inclusive approach to alliances, commitment to national development, and confidence in electoral success.