Puducherry: Incumbent Chief Minister N Rangasamy attributed the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by his party All India NR Congress (AINRC) in the assembly polls to the achievements of the AINRC-BJP coalition government over the last five years.
Speaking to reporters after collecting his certificate of election from a counting official, Rangasamy said the people have recognized the government's achievements and have elected the NDA again for a second consecutive term. He hailed the outcome as a direct mandate from the people validating his administration's performance. "People have recognized our achievements through this election. They have voted with gratitude to ensure we continue our work," Rangasamy said.
He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their support during the campaign. Rangasamy reaffirmed his commitment to seeking statehood for Puducherry, expressing confidence that the Union government would grant this status. He said he would call on the Lieutenant Governor to stake a claim to form the government.
Commenting on the opposition, he noted that Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president V Vaithilingam was pushed to fourth place in the Thattanchavady constituency. He said voters have taught a lesson to politicians they felt were unsuitable for the assembly.
Rangasamy assured the public that the new government would prioritize the continued implementation of welfare programs for the benefit of all citizens. He also congratulated actor-turned-politician Vijay on his electoral success in Tamil Nadu and urged him to serve the people of the state diligently.
Meanwhile, Home Minister A Namassivayam (BJP) was elected as the legislative party leader of the BJP. Fourteen MLAs of different parties lost the polls, while 14 new faces were elected. No woman candidate was elected in the polls.
The election results reflect a clear endorsement of the NDA's governance model in the union territory. Rangasamy's leadership and the coalition's focus on development and welfare schemes resonated with voters. The chief minister emphasized that the mandate is a validation of the government's efforts to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare.
He also highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation among alliance partners to ensure effective governance. Rangasamy reiterated that the NDA government would work tirelessly to address the aspirations of the people and accelerate the region's progress.
