The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to appoint a new national president around Independence Day, with several senior leaders reportedly under consideration. Internal discussions are ongoing, though no official confirmation has yet been made by the party or the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), PTI reported.
The current party chief, JP Nadda, has held the position since January 2020. His tenure was extended to lead the party through the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, after which speculation around his successor gained momentum.
According to media reports, the party leadership is inclined toward selecting a candidate with strong organisational experience. Several names are reportedly in contention, though insiders caution that the final choice may deviate from the expected list.
Among the frontrunners is Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister and senior leader from Odisha, where the BJP recently formed its first-ever state government. Pradhan's longstanding involvement in the party's internal affairs and his regional influence make him a notable contender.
Also mentioned is Bhupender Yadav, a Union Minister from Rajasthan, who currently handles the Environment, Forest and Climate Change portfolio. Known for his proximity to senior BJP leadership, including Amit Shah, Yadav has held previous roles within the party's central structure.
Another possible candidate is Shivraj Singh Chouhan, former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and currently Union Agriculture Minister. With administrative and grassroots experience, Chouhan has been seen as a leader with appeal and credibility.
The name of BD Sharma, a senior leader with previous organisational influence, has also surfaced in the speculation. Additionally, Manohar Lal Khattar, former Chief Minister of Haryana, is being considered, reported Hindustan Times.
While the timeline remains unofficial, the party is expected to announce the new president around August 15, though there remains the possibility of an earlier or later decision.
The BJP’s next national president will play a role in shaping the party’s direction ahead of upcoming state elections and the 2029 general election cycle.
