Rangasamy’s AINRC emerged as the dominant force within the alliance with 12 MLAs, while the BJP secured four seats. Alliance partners AIADMK and Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi won one seat each.
Puducherry: Swearing-in ceremony of CM-designate N. Rangaswamy
Veteran leader N. Rangasamy on Wednesday took oath as the Chief Minister of Puducherry for a record fifth time, as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) formally assumed office in the Union Territory following its decisive victory in the Assembly elections. The swearing-in ceremony at Puducherry Lok Bhavan marked another major political milestone for the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) chief, further cementing his dominance in Puducherry politics.
Lieutenant Governor K. Kailasanathan administered the oath of office and secrecy to Rangasamy and members of the new Cabinet amid the presence of senior BJP leaders, alliance partners, elected representatives and party workers. Alongside the Chief Minister, BJP MLA A. Namassivayam and AINRC MLA Malladi Krishna Rao were sworn in as ministers in the NDA government.
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With the latest swearing-in, Rangasamy has become the first leader in Puducherry’s history to hold the office of Chief Minister five times, strengthening his legacy as one of the Union Territory’s most influential political figures.
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This also marks his second consecutive term as Chief Minister under the NDA alliance.
Known for his strong grassroots connect and welfare-driven political image, Rangasamy once again emerged as the central face of the NDA campaign in Puducherry.
🎥 Veteran political leader and AINRC founder N. Rangasamy on Wednesday took oath as the Chief Minister of Puducherry. Lt Governor K. Kailashnathan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the CM and his cabinet colleagues.#Puducherry #NRangasamy #AINRC #ChiefMinister… pic.twitter.com/Prvl5TiPoe
— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) May 13, 2026
The NDA alliance registered a comfortable victory in the recently concluded Puducherry Assembly elections, securing enough numbers to form the government in the 30-member Assembly.
Rangasamy’s AINRC emerged as the dominant force within the alliance with 12 MLAs, while the BJP secured four seats. Alliance partners AIADMK and Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi won one seat each.
The alliance’s performance reinforced the BJP-led NDA’s political position in the Union Territory and extended Rangasamy’s long-standing influence in Puducherry politics.
Sources indicated that the Cabinet expansion would take place in the coming days as part of the alliance-sharing arrangement within the NDA.
At least three more legislators are expected to be inducted into the ministry during the next phase of Cabinet formation.
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