Veteran politician N. Rangasamy on Wednesday took oath as the Chief Minister of Puducherry for a record fifth time, marking another significant chapter in the Union Territory’s political history.
The oath-taking ceremony was held in Puducherry in the presence of senior political leaders, government officials and supporters of the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC). Lieutenant Governor officials administered the oath of office and secrecy to Rangasamy, who has remained one of the most influential political figures in the Union Territory for over two decades.
Rangasamy, widely referred to by supporters as the “People’s Chief Minister,” returned to office after his alliance secured enough support to form the government. His leadership continues to dominate Puducherry politics due to his welfare-focused image and long-standing grassroots support across the Union Territory.
The veteran leader first became Chief Minister in 2001 and later founded the AINRC after parting ways with the Indian National Congress. Since then, he has emerged as one of the strongest regional political faces in southern India. Political observers believe his personal popularity and welfare-oriented governance style have played a major role in sustaining his influence.
Senior leaders from alliance parties, including representatives of the Bharatiya Janata Party, attended the swearing-in ceremony. Congratulatory messages were also issued by several national and regional political leaders following the formation of the new government.
The new administration is expected to focus on infrastructure development, tourism expansion, employment generation and welfare schemes in the Union Territory. Puducherry’s economy remains heavily dependent on tourism, education and small-scale industries, making economic revival and investment key priorities for the incoming government.
Rangasamy’s return comes at a time when regional parties continue to play a decisive role in state and Union Territory politics despite the growing presence of national political parties. Analysts believe his fifth term reflects both political continuity and the enduring influence of regional leadership in Puducherry.
Security arrangements were tightened across the city during the oath ceremony, while supporters gathered outside the venue celebrating the return of the veteran leader.
With the new government now officially in place, attention is expected to shift toward Cabinet formation and the rollout of the administration’s immediate governance agenda in the coming weeks.