New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may soon create history by appointing its first-ever woman national president, with senior leaders Nirmala Sitharaman, D Purandeswari, and Vanathi Srinivasan emerging as frontrunners for the top post.
The move is reportedly supported by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), marking a strategic shift in the BJP’s internal leadership dynamics as the party undergoes a nationwide organizational overhaul. The current BJP national president, Jagat Prakash Nadda, has been holding the position beyond his original term, which ended in January 2023, with subsequent extensions due to the Lok Sabha elections.
Why a Woman President?
The BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has repeatedly acknowledged the vital role of women voters in its electoral successes. From the Ujjwala Yojana to women’s reservation bills, the party has consistently targeted this voter segment through welfare initiatives.
Appointing a woman national president could further solidify this outreach ahead of crucial state elections in Bihar, West Bengal, and other key battlegrounds. The move also aligns with the party’s broader narrative of championing women’s empowerment, as reflected in PM Modi’s frequent public addresses acknowledging women as the BJP’s “protective shield.”
The Leading Contenders
1. Nirmala Sitharaman:
India’s current Finance Minister, Sitharaman is a high-profile leader with deep policy experience and significant clout within the BJP. Her Tamil Nadu roots add strategic value to the BJP’s ambitions in southern India. She recently held discussions with JP Nadda and BJP General Secretary BL Santhosh at the party headquarters, further fuelling speculation.
2. D Purandeswari:
A seasoned leader and the former chief of BJP’s Andhra Pradesh unit, Purandeswari is also the daughter of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister NT Rama Rao. She played a diplomatic role in Operation Sindoor, advocating India’s anti-terrorism stance internationally. Her leadership in the South and association with legacy politics make her a strong contender.
3. Vanathi Srinivasan:
Currently an MLA from Tamil Nadu, Vanathi gained national attention by defeating actor-politician Kamal Haasan in the 2021 state elections. She has led the BJP Mahila Morcha and is a member of the BJP’s Central Election Committee since 2022. Her long-standing loyalty and organizational experience make her a potential dark horse.
Strategic Implications
With the BJP having finalized new state presidents in 24 states, the stage is set for a national-level leadership transition. A woman president would not only be a historic appointment but also serve as a powerful political message ahead of the upcoming assembly elections and the 2029 general election cycle.
