New Delhi, June 9, 2024 — Narendra Modi is set to be sworn in as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive time, following the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)'s victory in the recent Lok Sabha elections. The swearing-in ceremony will take place Sunday, June 9, at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, along with heads of state and government officials from seven countries, will attend the ceremony. Prime Minister Hasina has already arrived in New Delhi. The other dignitaries attending include:
- Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe
- Maldives President Dr. Mohammed Muijju
- Vice President of Seychelles Ahmed Afif
- Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Kumar Jagannath
- Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda
- Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay
The presence of these leaders aligns with Modi's 'neighbourhood first' policy and 'sea' vision, highlighting India's priority on regional relations.
The Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Saturday, June 8, confirming the attendance of the international leaders and detailing the plans for the swearing-in ceremony. The statement emphasized the cordial invitations extended to India's neighbors and Indian Ocean region countries.
Following the swearing-in, the dignitaries will attend a banquet hosted by President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This event will offer an opportunity for further diplomatic engagement and discussions.
The Lok Sabha election results, announced last Tuesday, saw the BJP securing 240 seats. The BJP-led NDA coalition won a total of 290 seats, enabling them to form the government. Unlike the previous two elections, the BJP did not achieve an outright majority on its own, necessitating a coalition government.
Narendra Modi's continued leadership marks a significant moment in Indian politics, with regional and international implications underscored by the attendance of several prominent leaders at the ceremony.
Comment: