The BJP, after its massive victory in the Delhi assembly elections, is gearing up to announce the next chief minister. Speculation is high that the party might choose a woman CM from its newly elected MLAs, a move that would make history. Reports also suggest a possible deputy CM from a socially representative background to ensure a diverse leadership team.
With 48 out of 70 seats in its pocket, BJP has finally ended its 26-year wait to return to power in Delhi, reducing AAP to just 22 seats.
Who are the frontrunners?
Among the leading names, these women MLAs are strong contenders for the top post:
- Rekha Gupta (Shalimar Bagh MLA) – National vice president of BJP’s women’s wing, won by 29,595 votes.
- Shikha Roy (Greater Kailash MLA) – Defeated AAP’s Saurabh Bharadwaj in a crucial contest.
- Poonam Sharma (Wazirpur MLA) – Won with a margin of 11,425 votes.
- Neelam Pehalwan (Najafgarh MLA) – Secured a massive victory with 1,01,708 votes.
- Bansuri Swaraj (New Delhi MLA) – Daughter of late Sushma Swaraj, a rising political figure.
- Smriti Irani – Despite her Amethi loss in 2024, remains a strong contender.
If BJP picks a woman CM, she will join the ranks of Sushma Swaraj, Sheila Dikshit, and Atishi, who have led Delhi before.
Other names in the race
The party is also considering Vijender Gupta, Ajay Mahawar, Abhay Verma, Kapil Mishra, and Parvesh Verma for the top post. A candidate with a Sikh or Purvanchali background is also being discussed.
When will the announcement be made?
The decision will likely be announced after PM Modi returns from the US, with a grand swearing-in ceremony planned. BJP is preparing for a massive event with chief ministers from all NDA-ruled states in attendance.
