“We will take appropriate steps at the appropriate time”: INDIA Alliance Declares its Intent to Challenge BJP Rule

Following the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections that were declared on June 4, the Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance or the INDIA bloc held a meeting at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence in New Delhi on June 5. They interpreted the results as a clear message against the Narendra Modi-led government. The INDIA bloc stated they would take "appropriate steps" at the "appropriate time" while expressing their determination to oppose what they termed as the "fascist rule of the BJP led by Modi."

“The people’s mandate has given a befitting reply to the BJP and their politics of hate, corruption and deprivation. This is a political and moral defeat of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi…The INDIA Bloc will continue to fight against the fascist rule of the BJP led by Modi,” said Mallickarjun Kharge, after a two-hour-long meeting at his residence. “We will take appropriate steps at the appropriate time to realise the people's desire not to be ruled by the BJP govt. This is our decision that whatever promises we have made to the people, we will keep it up,” he added.

The opposition INDIA bloc which bagged 234 seats, affirmed their commitment to continue fighting against what they perceived as the BJP's authoritarian governance. Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking on behalf of the alliance, emphasized their collective resolve to honor the people's mandate and oppose the BJP's government. Despite their electoral success, the alliance opted not to stake a claim for government formation immediately, indicating a cautious approach to navigating the political landscape.

Both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc held separate meetings, reflecting on the election results which favored the BJP-led NDA. The BJP secured 240 Lok Sabha seats, contributing to the NDA's total of 293 seats, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 272 in the 543-member House. Preparations for government formation commenced with the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), including TDP and JD(U), unanimously selecting Narendra Modi as its leader.​