N. Rangasamy Takes Oath as Puducherry Chief Minister for Fifth Time

Veteran leader N. Rangasamy was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Puducherry for a record fifth term after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured victory in the recent Assembly elections. The oath-taking ceremony was held at Lok Nivas in Puducherry, where Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) founder.

Rangasamy’s return to power further strengthened his reputation as one of Puducherry’s most influential political figures. The 75-year-old leader has remained a dominant presence in the Union Territory’s politics for over two decades and continues to enjoy significant public support.

The NDA alliance, led by the AINRC, achieved a comfortable majority in the 30-member Assembly. The coalition included the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), AIADMK and Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK). The AINRC emerged as the single largest party in the elections, helping the alliance form the new government smoothly.

Along with Rangasamy, senior leaders Malladi Krishna Rao and A. Namassivayam also took oath as ministers in the new Cabinet. Political observers said the Cabinet formation reflected efforts to maintain balance among alliance partners while ensuring administrative stability.

Several senior BJP leaders and NDA representatives attended the swearing-in ceremony. Party workers and supporters gathered in large numbers outside the venue to celebrate the victory, waving flags and raising slogans in support of the new government.

The latest election proved to be a setback for the opposition alliance led by Congress and the DMK. Analysts said internal differences and organisational challenges weakened the opposition campaign in several constituencies, allowing the NDA to gain a stronger foothold in the Union Territory. Rangasamy, often referred to by supporters as the “People’s Chief Minister,” has built a welfare-oriented political image over the years. His earlier tenures focused on social welfare schemes, infrastructure projects and public outreach initiatives.

The new government is expected to prioritise development projects, tourism growth, employment generation and improved public services. NDA leaders expressed confidence that stronger coordination between the Centre and the Puducherry administration would help accelerate development activities in the Union Territory over the coming years.