Image Credits - NDTV
As Narendra Modi gears up to take the oath of office for the third consecutive term, the excitement is palpable not only in India but also among its neighbouring nations. The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled to commence at 7:15 p.m. at Rashtrapati Bhavan, promises to be a momentous occasion, symbolizing not just Modi’s political triumph but also India’s commitment to regional cooperation and diplomacy.
A Gathering of Leaders
The significance of this event lies not only in the re-election of Narendra Modi but also in the presence of esteemed leaders from neighbouring countries, underlining India’s “Neighborhood First” policy. Among those who have confirmed their attendance are:
– President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr Ranil Wickremesinghe
– President of Maldives, H.E. Dr Mohamed Muizzu
– Vice-President of Seychelles, H.E. Mr Ahmed Afif
– Prime Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Sheikh Hasina
– Prime Minister of Mauritius, H.E. Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth
– Prime Minister of Nepal, H.E. Mr. Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’
– Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Mr. Tshering Tobgay
Their presence not only underscores the importance of India’s relationships with its neighbours but also highlights Modi’s stature as a regional leader.
With such a high-profile gathering, security arrangements in the national capital have been significantly ramped up. A three-tier security cordon has been put in place around Rashtrapati Bhavan, extending until June 11. Additionally, the Delhi-NCT area has been declared a no-fly zone to prevent unauthorized aerial activities. The city’s security apparatus, including traffic, police, and Army personnel, has been mobilized to ensure a smooth and secure event.
Diverse Attendees
In addition to political leaders, the guest list for the ceremony includes a diverse array of individuals who have made significant contributions to society. This includes workers involved in the construction of the Parliament building, loco pilots from the Indian Railways, and rat-hole miners who assisted in rescue operations in Uttarakhand. The inclusion of such individuals reflects Modi’s commitment to recognizing and honouring the efforts of all sections of society.
Seating arrangements have been made for over 8,000 guests, ensuring representation from various walks of life. From labourers to lawyers, doctors to artists, cultural performers to influencers, the ceremony aims to be a celebration of India’s diversity and inclusivity. Notably, participants acknowledged by Modi in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program, along with recipients of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri awards, will also be in attendance.
Beyond the international and diverse guest list, the ceremony will also be attended by political figures from across the spectrum. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, outgoing MPs, BJP leaders, as well as other MPs, MLAs, and MLCs, will grace the occasion, emphasizing the bipartisan nature of this historic event.
As Narendra Modi prepares to embark on his third term as Prime Minister, the oath-taking ceremony serves as a testament to India’s democratic traditions, regional leadership, and inclusive ethos. With leaders from neighbouring countries, eminent individuals from various fields, and representatives from across the political spectrum coming together, the event symbolizes unity in diversity and sets the stage for a new chapter in India’s journey under Modi’s leadership.