The Hague, May 16 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi told a gathering of the Indian diaspora in the Netherlands that May 16 is ‘‘very special’’, recalling the 2014 Lok Sabha verdict that delivered a decisive mandate to the BJP-led NDA and enabled the formation of a stable central government.
Speaking at a community event during his five-nation tour, Modi said the 2014 result — when the BJP won 282 of 543 seats — marked an important turning point in India’s political history by producing a clear majority at the Centre. He noted the party later increased its tally to 303 seats in 2019 but fell to 240 seats in 2024, losing its outright majority.
Modi thanked the overseas Indian community for their continued support and affection, saying their trust and blessings have been a constant source of strength. He described his lifelong commitment to the country, saying he has been ‘‘coloured in the colours of patriotism’’ from a young age and that the diaspora’s welfare and happiness have become his duty.
The prime minister is on a five-nation trip from May 15–20; the tour began with a visit to the United Arab Emirates. The remarks were reported by ANI.
