BJP Delhi CM Candidates: Exit Polls Predict BJP Victory, Top Contenders Emerge
New Delhi: The exit polls have predicted a victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi, sparking excitement within the party. If these predictions hold true, the crucial question remains: Who will be Delhi’s next Chief Minister? BJP has multiple contenders for the top post, ranging from veteran leaders to newer faces. The final decision will likely depend on caste representation, seniority, and political strategy.
Exit Poll Predictions
According to Axis My India, the AAP is projected to secure between 15 and 25 seats, while the BJP-led alliance (BJP+) is expected to win between 45 and 55 seats. The Congress, meanwhile, is predicted to get between 0 and 1 seat.
Chanakya Strategies has estimated AAP’s tally at 25-28 seats, BJP+ at 39-44 seats, and Congress at 2-3 seats. These numbers indicate a possible shift in power, making the selection of the next CM a significant decision for the BJP.
Top Contenders for Delhi CM Post
Dushyant Gautam
A BJP national general secretary and a Dalit leader, Dushyant Gautam is contesting from Karol Bagh against AAP’s three-time MLA Vishesh Ravi. Gautam has previously served as a Rajya Sabha MP and was active in student politics. Despite previous electoral losses in 2008 and 2013 from Kondli, his senior position in the party and Dalit representation make him a strong contender.
Parvesh Verma
Son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma, Parvesh Verma is contesting from the high-profile New Delhi seat against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal. A victory over Kejriwal would cement his position as a ‘giant killer’ and make him a strong choice for CM. His Jat background is a key factor in BJP’s political calculations.
Vijender Gupta
A seasoned BJP leader, Vijender Gupta has consistently won from Rohini despite AAP’s dominance in Delhi. A former Delhi BJP chief, he has served as Leader of the Opposition in the Delhi Assembly. His experience and resilience against AAP’s electoral wave make him a strong contender for the CM post.
Satish Upadhyay
The former Delhi BJP chief and ex-vice chairperson of NDMC, Upadhyay is contesting from Malviya Nagar. His past leadership roles within the party could work in his favor.
Rekha Gupta & Shikha Rai
For a female CM, Rekha Gupta and Shikha Rai are strong contenders. Rekha, a former MCD councillor and Delhi University Students’ Union president, is contesting from Shalimar Bagh. Shikha Rai, contesting from Greater Kailash against AAP’s Saurabh Bhardwaj, is another potential pick if BJP opts for a woman leader.
Manjinder Singh Sirsa
A key Sikh face in the BJP, Sirsa is contesting from Rajouri Garden. Having won the seat twice, including once as an Akali Dal candidate, he has played a vital role in BJP’s outreach to the Sikh community. His past role as Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee president enhances his stature.
Ravinder Singh Negi
Contesting from Patparganj, Negi had previously lost to AAP’s Manish Sisodia by a narrow margin. A leader from Uttarakhand with PM Narendra Modi’s support, Negi is a crucial figure in BJP’s Delhi strategy.
Kapil Mishra
A former AAP leader who switched to BJP, Mishra is a known Hindutva face. Contesting from Karawal Nagar, his aggressive stance against AAP and strong ideological appeal make him a potential candidate.
Kailash Gahlot
A former AAP leader now with BJP, Gahlot is contesting from Bijwasan. He has twice won from Najafgarh on an AAP ticket before joining BJP, bringing ministerial experience to the table.
Ramesh Bidhuri
A prominent Gurjar leader and former MP, Bidhuri is contesting against AAP’s Atishi Singh. His outspoken style and significant influence in Delhi politics could make him a contender for a major role in the government.
BJP’s Likely Strategy
BJP has a history of surprising people with its CM picks. It has previously chosen first-time MLAs and young leaders for top positions. In states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, BJP accommodated former MPs in cabinet roles. Given Delhi’s status as the national capital, the party might select a leader who can send a strong message across the country.
The final choice will depend on caste representation, seniority, and political strategy. Will BJP go with an experienced leader or a fresh face? If the party wins tomorrow, the race for Delhi’s top post will begin in full swing.
