‘Election’ of new party president to be finalised soon; Sangh wants a “strong organisational leader, not just a rubber stamp”, say sources
Is the BJP considering the name of a woman leader to take over as president, breaking the glass ceiling in the organisation led by a male-dominated ideologue—the RSS.
Several rounds of meetings have so far failed to get the BJP and RSS to agree on a name. But with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh all-India Prant Pracharak meeting underway at Keshav Kunj in Delhi to “review organisational progress and deliberate on its centenary celebrations scheduled to begin later this year”, there are also talks of several issues being resolved, including that of the next BJP president and also a possible Union cabinet reshuffle.
The Sangh officially denies any role in the functioning of its political arm — the BJP— but there is a strong buzz about its leaders indicating to the BJP top brass that the “election”, or say selection of a single consensus candidate, should be wrapped up before the monsoon session of Parliament begins.
The current BJP chief JP Nadda’s term as BJP chief ended a long time back and he is an extension.
The names of several leaders, including former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, is said to be in the line to take over from Nadda. Apparently, the BJP has suggested some other names to the RSS, including Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, say sources. Meanwhile, the names of prominent women politicians like Nirmala Sitharaman, D Purandeswari and Vanathi Srinivasan are also doing the rounds.
Those vouching that the next BJP chief will be a woman cite the example of the current President Droupadi Murmu. “So why not a woman chief to send a positive message across the country, and also south if she is from that region,” they argue.
The RSS may deny having any hand or role in the functioning of BJP but those familiar with its functioning say new state presidents are being selected keeping in mind their Sangh’ roots. Nadda had to hold several meetings with top RSS functionaries for selection of candidates in state units, they add.
A shortlist has been prepared but the final decision will be that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Now the big question, will the Sangh be okay with having a woman as the BJP president or is the idea being floated just to gauge the mood.
According to insiders, the RSS wants a “strong organisational leader, not just a rubber stamp”.
Meanwhile, Sangh’s senior leadership, including RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, are there in Delhi for the three-day conference of the prant pracharaks. BJP general secretary (organisation), BL Santosh, will participate in the conference.
