BJP may appoints its first woman president: 3 big names in list

BJP President: Recent reports indicate that the BJP is indeed seriously considering appointing its first-ever woman national president. This would be a historic move for the party, which has never had a woman at its helm at the national level.

The term of the current BJP National President, J.P. Nadda, officially ended in January 2023, but it was extended until June 2024 to steer the party through the Lok Sabha elections. The party is now in the process of appointing state unit chiefs, which is a prerequisite for electing a new national president.

The BJP has seen a significant increase in its women voter base in recent elections, and appointing a woman president would be a strong signal to further consolidate this support. The recent passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam) by the Modi government is another factor.

Appointing a woman to the top party post would align with the spirit of this bill and demonstrate the party’s commitment to women’s empowerment. Several of the prominent names being considered are from South India, which could help the BJP expand its footprint in a region where it has traditionally faced challenges.

Reports suggest that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP, has also endorsed the idea of appointing a woman to the top post, recognizing its symbolic and strategic advantages.

Three names being mentioned as strong contenders for the post:

1. Nirmala Sitharaman: The current Union Finance Minister. She is considered a frontrunner due to her vast experience in government (including previously as Defence Minister) and deep roots within the party organization. Her appointment could also aid the BJP’s outreach in Southern India.

2. D. Purandeswari: Former Andhra Pradesh BJP chief and currently an MP from Rajahmundry. She is known for her distinguished political career, multilingual abilities, and strong organizational background. She was also part of a multi-party delegation (“Operation Sindoor”) to represent India’s anti-terrorism stance globally.

3. Vanathi Srinivasan: A lawyer-turned-politician from Tamil Nadu and currently an MLA from Coimbatore South. She has held several key roles within the party, including National President of the BJP Mahila Morcha and a member of the BJP’s Central Election Committee. She famously defeated Kamal Haasan in the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

This is a significant development to watch, as it could mark a new chapter in the history of the Bharatiya Janata Party.