1. BJP’s Rajya Sabha strength reduced as four members’ terms ended on July 13.
2. Nominated by President Droupadi Murmu, they supported PM Modi’s government policies.
3. This marks a significant change in India’s upper-house political dynamics.
New Delhi, July 15: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) witnessed a decrease in its strength within the Rajya Sabha as four of its members completed their terms on July 13, marking a notable shift in the political landscape of India’s upper house of Parliament.
Sonal Mansingh, Mahesh Jethmalani, Rakesh Sinha, and Ram Shakal, who were nominated by President Droupadi Murmu based on the BJP’s recommendation, had been staunch supporters aligned with the policies and initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
Following their departure, the BJP’s representation in the Rajya Sabha has diminished to 86 seats. Concurrently, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, now commands a total of 101 seats.
However, this figure falls short of the majority mark of 113 seats required in the 245-member House to wield outright legislative influence.
The NDA strategizes to secure additional seats in key states such as Bihar, Maharashtra, Assam, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Tripura. This move is intended to bolster their numerical advantage over opposition parties, consolidating their position within the upper house of Parliament.
The recent vacancies have prompted discussions and anticipations regarding the realignment of political allegiances.
Newly nominated members are expected to align with the treasury benches, supporting the government’s legislative agenda.
While typically non-aligned in terms of party affiliation, nominated members historically lend their support to the ruling party’s policies.
Currently, the Rajya Sabha faces a significant gap with 19 vacant seats. The Congress party eyes opportunities to strengthen its position, particularly eyeing the lone seat in Telangana.
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Conversely, the BJP anticipates securing vacant seats in Rajasthan and Haryana, reinforcing its foothold in these regions following recent electoral shifts.
Political dynamics are further complicated by impending assembly polls and potential defections among independent or regional party-affiliated MLAs. These factors could potentially influence the balance of power within the Rajya Sabha, particularly in states preparing for elections later in the year.
The Election Commission (EC) is yet to announce the schedule for filling the 11 vacancies resulting from the resignations of several members, most of whom transitioned to roles in the Lok Sabha following recent general elections.
Notably, four vacancies in Jammu and Kashmir highlight ongoing political transformations in the region since its reorganization as a Union Territory in 2019.
As the political landscape evolves, the upcoming months are expected to witness strategic maneuvers and alliances aimed at reshaping the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
The BJP and its allies, alongside opposition parties, will navigate these shifts to secure their legislative objectives and political influence in India’s upper house of Parliament.
