No Muslim Ministers in Modi's New Government
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s newly elected government includes 30 federal ministers and 41 state ministers. Despite Muslims making up 14.2% of India’s population, no Muslim ministers have been included.
This marks the first time in Indian history that no Muslim parliamentary member has been sworn in after elections. Typically, the council of ministers would include at least one Muslim MP. The absence of Muslim representation is due to no Muslim MPs from the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) being elected. Out of the 24 Muslim MPs elected to the lower house, 21 are from the INDIA bloc, and three are from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen.
The new cabinet will hold its first meeting this evening to request the Indian President to convene the parliamentary session soon.
In a surprising outcome, Modi did not win a clear majority this time and had to seek support from allies within the NDA to retain power, contrary to predictions of an increased majority.
President Murmu administered the oath of office to Modi during a grand ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by thousands of dignitaries, Bollywood stars, and industrialists. Modi, who has served three consecutive terms, has adopted a more conciliatory tone since the unexpected election results, emphasizing the importance of unanimity in running the country.
