Modi 2.0: The First 100 Days of Narendra Modi’s Second Term in Office

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has completed the first 100 days of its second term in office. After a landslide victory in the general elections of May 2019, PM Modi’s government secured its second term in power, and upon entering office, unleashed a slew of policies and political changes.

Here’s a look at some key decisions by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government within the first 100 days of their second stint in office.

Triple Talaq

In a landmark decision on July 30, 2019, the Union Government passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2019, which bans and criminalizes the practice of instant triple talaq among Muslims. Turning the bill into an act was a positive move by the Government to protect vulnerable Muslim women. In discussing the bold move, PM Modi asked, “If we can take steps against ‘Sati’ custom, female feticide, child marriage and dowry, then why not against instant triple talaq.”

Revoking Article 370

One of the most historic moves made by PM Modi and his government was to revoke Article 370 and Article 35A of the Indian Constitution. This removed the special status and provisions accorded to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 offered the state the power to have a separate constitution, autonomy over the internal administration of the state, as well as a separate state flag. Whereas, Article 35A defined that the residents of J&K lived under a separate set of laws, including those related to ownership of property.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act 2019

In another key step taken by the government, the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act, was cleared and paved the way for the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Mega Bank Merger

On August 20, 2019, Government announced the merger of 10 public sector banks into four large banks. The aim was to provide better banking facilities to consumers as well as create fewer and stronger global-sized lenders. It was a way to enhance profitability and boost the economy.

POCSO (Amendment) Bill 2019

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2019 is landmark legislation introduced by the Government. The legislation includes a death penalty that has been incorporated in the Bill for sexual assaults on children. Along with this, the government decided to set up 1,023 fast track courts in one year for speedy judgment in POCSO cases.

Anti-Terror Law

On August 2, 2019, the Parliament passed the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act 2019. This is a cornerstone in PM Modi’s zero-tolerance against terrorism. The amendment gives the power to the central government to designate an individual as a terrorist and seize their property.

Howdy Modi Event

With the tagline of “Shared Dreams, Bright Futures,” a mega event, called ‘Howdy Modi,’ was organized on September 22, 2019, in Houston, Texas. The intent behind the event was to build on the common aspirations that bring together the two great nations – India and the United States. With over 50,000 people in attendance, PM Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump came together to address, woo, and showcase the common goals that both nations hold for the future.