Modi Calls for Consensus as BJP Adapts to Coalition Governance in New Parliament Session

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, facing a new political landscape after his party’s recent electoral setback, opened parliament with a call for consensus and cooperation from the opposition. Following a decade of single-party rule, Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) now heads a coalition government, necessitating a shift towards compromise and coalition management.

The initial parliamentary session, slated until July 3, marks the beginning of Modi’s third term, focusing on his agenda recalibrated to accommodate coalition dynamics and broader national interests.

Central to this session is the anticipated formal appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the leader of the opposition, marking a significant resurgence for the Congress party. This move is seen as a pivotal moment in Indian politics, where Gandhi, scion of the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, has led Congress to its strongest parliamentary showing in years, nearly doubling its seat count.

Modi, in his address before parliament, emphasized the importance of consensus in governance, signaling a departure from his previous authoritative legislative approach.

Acknowledging the strengthened opposition, Modi urged constructive debate over disruptive tactics, advocating for substantive discussions on critical national issues such as infrastructure, social welfare, and economic reforms.

The mood in parliament reflected this shifting political landscape, with Modi’s supporters cheering his oath-taking while opposition members waved the constitution in symbolic protest. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju called for a “peaceful and productive” session, but media reports indicated expectations of vigorous debate and scrutiny from a revitalized opposition.

As Modi navigates this new phase of coalition governance, analysts anticipate a moderated approach to his Hindu-nationalist agenda, focusing instead on policies that can garner broader support across the political spectrum.

This parliamentary session serves as a preview of how Modi’s government plans to balance its core ideological commitments with the practical demands of governing through consensus in a diverse political environment.