POLITICS

BJP unlikely to secure a majority in RS this year

The BJP's success in 3 states is not expected to significantly enhance its representation in the Rajya Sabha, and the party is not likely to secure a majority this year. The BJP may acquire additional seats in subsequent years, rather than immediately. 69 members of the Rajya Sabha are set to retire this year before the Lok Sabha polls. The Rajya Sabha currently has 239 members, where the BJP holds the largest share with 94 seats, followed by the Congress with 30 and the TMC with 13 seats. Although the BJP is anticipated to maintain its hold on 30 seats that will fall vacant in April this year, the Congress is poised to keep its existing seats and gain an additional two from Telangana, which it secured from the BRS. Several notable leaders, including Manmohan Singh, Bhupender Yadav, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Purshottam Rupala, are slated for retirement in April.

Will BRS join NDA?

BRS led by K C Chandrashekhar Rao is now likely to support the BJP in ensuing Lok Sabha polls in Telengana. The party may join the NDA.