The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in the final stages of electing its new national president, with the decision expected to be announced by March 15, 2025. The position became vacant after JP Nadda was elevated to a Union ministerial role, prompting a keenly contested leadership race within the party. The BJP’s national leadership is working towards selecting a strong candidate capable of guiding the party through the next five years, as it prepares for crucial state and national elections.
 

Currently, four prominent leaders are in the running for the top post:

1. Shivraj Singh Chouhan – Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and now a Union minister, he is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of governance and grassroots politics.
2. Vasundhara Raje – Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, she has played a key role in the party's success in the state and has considerable experience in national politics.
3. Sunil Bansal – BJP’s National General Secretary, he is credited for his strategic election management, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh.
4. Vinod Tawde – A senior leader from Maharashtra, Tawde has extensive experience in party administration and governance, making him a potential choice for the role.

BJP’s Election Process and State Polls Strategy

According to the BJP’s rules, elections for the party’s national president can only be conducted once organizational elections are completed in at least half of the states in India. So far, the BJP has successfully completed party elections in 12 states, with polls still required in six more states before the national leadership vote can proceed.The party is expediting this process to meet its March 15 deadline, as it seeks a leader who can steer the organization through crucial upcoming elections. In 2026, key state elections will take place in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Gujarat. The BJP has already initiated internal organization polls in these states to strengthen its foothold before the elections.
 

The high command has also asked state party in-charges to recommend names for the national president’s post, ensuring that the selection process includes inputs from regional leaders. While the four frontrunners remain the most discussed candidates, the possibility of a surprise entrant into the race remains high, given the BJP’s history of strategic decision-making.
 

Leadership Transition and Future Challenges

The next BJP national president will face the daunting task of strengthening the party's grassroots presence, maintaining internal cohesion, and preparing for critical electoral battles. With the BJP likely to remain in power at the center for the next five years, the new leader must navigate policy decisions, election campaigns, and party affairs while ensuring that BJP continues its dominance in the political landscape.JP Nadda, who assumed office as BJP president in 2020, successfully led the party to a third consecutive national election victory. His tenure saw significant organizational restructuring and strategic electoral wins, cementing his legacy as a competent leader. His recent elevation as a Union minister marks a transition for the party, necessitating a strong and capable successor who can maintain BJP’s momentum.
 

The selection of the next president will also be crucial in shaping BJP’s campaign strategy for 2029, ensuring that the party remains united while expanding its voter base. The new leader will also have to address internal challenges, manage regional alliances, and oversee BJP’s expansion efforts in South India.As the March 15 deadline approaches, political analysts and party members eagerly await the announcement, which could shape the trajectory of the BJP for the foreseeable future. Will one of the four key contenders secure the position, or will the party high command spring a last-minute surprise? The answer will soon be revealed as the BJP gears up for its next leadership transition.