This Enhances the alliance's prospects in Karnataka & reinforcing their united front

NEW-DELHI: In a Significant Political Development, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President J.P. Nadda declared on Friday that the Janata Dal (Secular) (JD[S]) has formally decided to align itself with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This strategic move comes after a crucial meeting between former Chief Minister of Karnataka, H.D. Kumaraswamy, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, paving the way for a strengthened alliance.

Nadda took to his official platform, stating, "In the presence of our esteemed senior leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, I met with the former Chief Minister of Karnataka, H.D. Kumaraswamy. I am pleased to announce that JD(S) has chosen to align with the NDA. We extend a warm welcome to them, further fortifying the NDA alliance."

Kumaraswamy's visit to Delhi, specifically for discussions regarding his party's alliance with the BJP in Karnataka for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, marked a crucial juncture in this decision. Talks regarding this collaboration had gained momentum, especially since senior BJP leader B.S. Yediyurappa had earlier indicated that the BJP and JD(S) would join forces for the general elections, with JD(S) contesting on four Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka.

Karnataka, a state with a total of 28 Lok Sabha seats, witnessed the BJP triumphing in 25 seats during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, while an independent candidate supported by JD(S) secured the Mandya seat. Congress and Janata Dal (S) each secured one seat in the same elections.

Notably, In the recent 224-member Karnataka assembly elections conducted in May, the Congress emerged victorious with 135 seats, followed by the BJP with 66 seats, and the JD(S) with 19 seats, outlining the political landscape in the state.