Last Updated:
What appears to be a smooth, well-oiled political machine is actually the result of meticulous internal planning, an NDA leader told News18
This structured, inclusive, and tightly coordinated approach has ensured that, despite being a coalition, the NDA speaks with one voice, and governs with a common purpose. File pic/PTI
The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance’s unity since the 2024 general election win isn’t just a matter of post-poll arithmetic—it’s the result of a well-structured strategy focused on clarity, discipline, and coordinated governance. While this is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term in office, it marks the first time his government is operating in a coalition format, a dynamic that many critics had predicted wouldn’t last.
Yet, what appears to be a smooth, well-oiled political machine is actually the result of meticulous internal planning, an NDA leader told CNN-News18. “It may look effortless, but this model has been put together in a scientific manner, so much so that there has been no major friction within the alliance despite many sceptics predicting early collapse.”
Strategic grouping of MPs
One of the NDA’s key innovations has been the division of all its MPs into smaller working groups, each comprising 10-12 members. These groups are overseen by one cabinet minister, one minister of state, and one member from the BJP’s organisational setup to ensure regular engagement.
To reinforce the seriousness of these meetings, it has been made mandatory that at least one among Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, or JP Nadda be present in every group-level meeting. This ensures that alliance coordination isn’t left to junior leaders but is backed by the top tier of government.
For instance, a recent group meeting took place at the residence of JD(U) MP and union minister Ramnath Thakur, a member of the group led by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Regular meetings during Parliament sessions
Sources say each group holds at least one meeting during every Parliament session, with additional meetings for larger state blocs like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, or Maharashtra, depending on coordination needs. These sessions are used to discuss key policy positions, clarify the government’s stance on current issues, and ensure a unified voice across the coalition.
“These meetings are not just about BJP strategy,” a source explained. “They also serve to address issues raised by our alliance partners and Bharatiya Janata Party MPs regarding constituency work or pending development projects, so that they don’t have to constantly knock on doors.”
Digital coordination and real-time feedback
To strengthen coordination further, dedicated WhatsApp groups have been created for each MP team. These groups are used to share ground reports, media clippings, programme updates, and internal communication.
Senior ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Bhupender Yadav, and key leaders from NDA allies such as TDP’s Ram Mohan Naidu and JD(U)’s Lalan Singh, are actively leading these groups.
NDA-wide parliamentary party meetings
In a recent move inspired by suggestions from an NDA ally, the parliamentary party meetings, traditionally held only by the BJP every Tuesday during Parliament sessions, have now been expanded to include all NDA members.
A senior minister from an NDA ally told CNN-News18, “We felt the PM is not just the BJP leader but the head of the entire coalition. He should address all NDA MPs together.” He added that PM Modi readily accepted the suggestion, and now these Tuesday meetings have become full-fledged NDA gatherings, giving all allies direct access to top leadership.
Strength in numbers
The BJP secured 240 seats on its own in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. With key allies like TDP and JD(U), along with regional partners like Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), LJP (Chirag Paswan), HAM (Jitan Ram Manjhi), Jana Sena, and JD(S), the NDA’s strength stands at 292 seats, giving it a comfortable majority.
Some of these alliances also extend to state-level coalitions. For instance, TDP and Jana Sena are allied with the BJP in Andhra Pradesh. JD(U) is a key partner in Bihar. In Maharashtra, NCP and Shiv Sena share power with the BJP.
This structured, inclusive, and tightly coordinated approach has ensured that, despite being a coalition, the NDA speaks with one voice, and governs with a common purpose.
view comments
- First Published:
