Amit Shah to meet NDA constituents on 23rd

Despite exit polls giving huge numbers to the NDA, a clear indication that it should not have any problems in forming the government on its own, the BJP is not closing its options.

Party president Amit Shah has already hinted that the BJP won't shy away from forming more alliances, said sources.

Addressing a press conference on the last day of the campaigning, Shah had said that the party was not averse to including new partners in the NDA if they are in "agreement with its policies and vision for the country". He has called for a meeting of NDA constituents on May 23, when the results will be announced.

The BJP's stance was also evident after Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Fani-affected areas in Odisha. PM Modi praised Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik profusely for the evacuation of 14 lakh people to safety ahead of the cyclone.

Patnaik returned the compliment, generously thanking Modi and his government for extending help for rescue, relief and restoration work.

If the actual results on May 23 throw up numbers on the lines of the exit polls, the NDA kitty could swell further as many independents and smaller parties will be keen to be part of the government.