Rashtriya Lok Dal, Led by Jayant Chaudhary, Officially Joins BJP-Led NDA Alliance

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiled its initial list of 195 candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) received a significant boost with the formal inclusion of Jayant Chaudhary’s Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) into its fold. Formerly aligned with the opposition INDIA alliance, the Uttar Pradesh-based RLD had been signaling its intent to switch sides for some time.

Sharing snapshots of his meeting with Jayant Chaudhary and Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda expressed his hearty welcome to Chaudhary’s decision to join the NDA. Speaking in Hindi, Nadda stated, “I met RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary in the presence of Amit Shah. I heartily welcome his decision to join the NDA family. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, you will make an important contribution to the journey towards a developed India and the development of Uttar Pradesh.”

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Speculations about a potential alliance between the BJP and the RLD had been circulating, gaining momentum particularly after the announcement of the Bharat Ratna for Mr. Chaudhary’s grandfather and former Prime Minister, Chaudhary Charan Singh, on February 9th. Welcoming the honor, the RLD chief expressed his sentiment, writing, “Dil jeet liya mera (They have won my heart).”

Responding to reporters’ queries regarding a possible alliance with the BJP, Mr. Chaudhary remarked, “Is there anything left? How can I refuse?” Three days later, he hinted that the deal with the BJP had been finalized, with a formal announcement expected shortly. Addressing concerns that some members of his party were displeased with the decision, Chaudhary reassured that he had consulted with everyone and made the decision in the best interest of the people of Uttar Pradesh.