NDA will clinch power, break previous electoral records: PM Modi

New Delhi, Mar 15: In anticipation of the imminent announcement of Parliament poll dates, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a resounding assertion on Friday, declaring the impending blossoming of the “lotus” – symbolising the BJP – in the southern state of Kerela.

He expressed confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would not only clinch power at the Centre but also surpass previous electoral records in the forthcoming polls.

Addressing a gathering of the BJP-led NDA in Kerala, PM Modi called upon voters in the southern state to convert their significant support into actual votes, thereby enabling the BJP to secure double-digit seats in Kerala.

Highlighting the fervent anticipation of a vibrant democratic spectacle, he emphasised his unwavering belief that Kerala's burgeoning affection for the BJP would translate into unprecedented support, breaking all previous electoral benchmarks.

The PM vowed relentless efforts towards Kerala's development, pledging to leave no stone unturned.

His assertion comes ahead of the Election Commission's announcement of the impending schedule for the Lok Sabha polls.

In a strategic outreach to the Christian community in Kerala – pivotal for NDA's success in key Lok Sabha constituencies – PM Modi recounted his meeting with Pope Francis and underscored his government's successful endeavours, including the rescue of a priest from Kottayam abducted by ISIS militants in Yemen.

His address also featured a subtle reference to recent incidents of violence against Christians, as he projected Anil K Antony, a prominent Christian face of the BJP, as a symbol of rejuvenation in Kerala's political landscape.

Citing Kerala's contribution to the BJP's double-digit vote share in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the PM expressed confidence in achieving a similar feat in seat count, asserting the forthcoming blooming of the "lotus" in Kerala.

In a scathing critique of the incumbent LDF and UDF governments, PM Modi lambasted their alleged corruption and incompetence, citing instances of gold smuggling and a solar panel scam.

Asserting the need to break the cycle of consecutive LDF and UDF governments, he advocated for the BJP's representation in Kerala, emphasising the facilitation of effective communication between the state and the Centre for streamlined development initiatives.

Commencing his address with chants invoking spiritual fervour, the PM extended advanced Easter wishes and acknowledged the impending festivities, underscoring the impending commencement of the "biggest festival of democracy".

Accompanied by Padmaja Venugopal, a recent BJP entrant, the stage was set for a fervent political discourse as the NDA prepared to embark on its electoral campaign trail.