BJP strengthens position in Rajya Sabha with cross votes; NDA inches closer to majority

NEW DELHI: BJP secured victories for 30 of its members in the recent elections for 56 Rajya Sabha seats, bolstering its presence in the upper house of Parliament. With these wins, the BJP now commands a formidable count of 97 members and together with its allies, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) membership stands at 117.

The latest triumphs mark a strategic advancement for the BJP, as it moves closer to overcoming the majority threshold in the 240-member Rajya Sabha. Currently, the majority stands at 121 seats, excluding the five seats from President-ruled Jammu and Kashmir and one nominated member. The BJP's enhanced strength, achieved in part through cross votes from members of the Samajwadi Party and Congress in Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh signals a significant shift in the political landscape.

Looking ahead, projections suggest that by 2026, the BJP is poised to gain further ground in the Rajya Sabha fueled by its expanding influence across various states. This anticipated growth bodes well for the NDA's ability to navigate crucial legislative agendas, including amendments such as the Single Civil Code and the Preamble Amendment to the Constitution, along with initiatives like One Country, One Election.

BJP's adept maneuvering in garnering support from regional parties like the BJD and YSRCP played a pivotal role in driving key legislations during the 17th Lok Sabha. Noteworthy achievements include the repeal of Article 370, the prohibition of triple talaq and the enactment of the Delhi Service Bill.

With the Congress-led 'India' front trailing behind with less than 100 seats in the Rajya Sabha, the BJP's strengthened position underscores its growing influence in shaping India's legislative landscape.

Seats held by other parties in the Rajya Sabha:

- Trinamool Congress: 13 seats

- DMK and Aam Aadmi Party: 10 seats each

- BJD and YSRCP: 9 seats each

- BRS: 7 seats

- RJD: 6 seats

- CPM: 5 seats

- Independent candidates: 3 seats

- Samajwadi and CPI: 2 seats each

- Other parties: 24 seats