The selection of the new national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains unclear. The election is now likely to be postponed until the end of July or the first week of August.
New Delhi: Political activity has intensified regarding the selection of the new national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While a final consensus on a name hasn't been reached, several individuals are consistently mentioned. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, organizational strategist Sunil Bansal, and other leaders are among the potential candidates.
This presidential election involves not only organizational processes but also crucial considerations of caste balance, RSS consensus, and strategies for upcoming assembly elections.
Two Major Reasons for the Delay: Organization and Consensus
According to the BJP constitution, the national president's election can be held only after the party organizational elections are completed in at least half of the states. However, this process remains incomplete in large states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana. Furthermore, differences of opinion have emerged between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the BJP's top leadership regarding potential candidates.
Sources suggest the RSS desires a president who can revitalize the organization, while the BJP leadership seeks a politically balanced figure capable of addressing the decline in performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This has led to the delay in decision-making.
Announcement Expected in July-August
BJP sources believe that J.P. Nadda will remain president until the end of July or the first week of August. During this period, efforts are underway to complete state unit elections and reach a consensus between the RSS and BJP on potential candidates.
The party also aims to contest the Bihar Assembly elections (October-November 2025) under the new president's leadership, providing the new leadership with a b start.
Who are the Top Contenders?
1. Dharmendra Pradhan
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, hailing from Odisha, possesses experience in both organization and government. He is considered a trusted associate of Prime Minister Modi. His OBC background makes him a b contender in terms of caste equations.
2. Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently relieved of his duties as Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, is also in the running. He is one of the BJP's veteran and popular leaders. His relationship with the RSS is b, but the party's top leadership is hesitant due to his age and background outside of the government.
3. Sunil Bansal
Currently serving as the party's general secretary, Sunil Bansal is considered highly influential within the organization. His strategic skills, particularly in large states like Uttar Pradesh, have contributed to BJP's electoral successes. His RSS background could garner b support from the Sangh.
4. Bhupendra Yadav and G. Kishan Reddy
Bhupendra Yadav, known for his expertise in organization and parliamentary strategy, is also viewed as a potential candidate. Meanwhile, G. Kishan Reddy from Telangana is considered a possibility to represent South India.
Organizational Balance and Future Strategy are Key
The BJP's challenge lies not just in selecting a name, but also in determining how the new president will strengthen the party for upcoming elections. Given the reduced number of seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the growing influence of the opposition, the president should effectively balance organizational and political-campaign roles.
Some advocate for a younger face who can better connect with the new generation and the digital age. Conversely, several senior leaders believe experienced leadership is needed, capable of harmonizing relations with both the RSS and the government.
