As discussions intensify over the selection of Delhi’s next chief minister, the BJP has decided to transform the swearing-in ceremony of its new government into a grand event showcasing the unity of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), party leaders revealed.
This ceremony will mark the BJP’s return to power in the national capital after 27 years, an achievement the party views as a milestone. To emphasize its commitment to coalition politics, the BJP plans to invite its NDA allies, even though the Delhi assembly election was largely a solo effort by the party.
At the Centre, the BJP relies heavily on its allies, as it fell short of a majority in last year’s general elections. This dependency is believed to be one of the reasons behind the party’s efforts to maintain cordial relations within the alliance. Notably, in the Delhi polls, BJP’s Bihar allies—the Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party—were each allocated one seat but failed to secure victories.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place later this week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his February 12-13 visit to the United States. However, the BJP must first resolve the challenge of selecting the chief minister from a pool of contenders.
Among the frontrunners is Parvesh Sahib Singh, who defeated AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi assembly constituency. While his victory has elevated his profile, his status as the son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma may work against him, given Modi’s consistent criticism of political dynasties.
“Modi will make the final decision, and he has a track record of surprising everyone by choosing unexpected candidates,” said a BJP insider. The party leadership had previously defied expectations by selecting first-time MLA Bhajan Lal Sharma in Rajasthan, Mohan Yadav in Madhya Pradesh, and Vishnu Deo Sai in Chhattisgarh after sweeping elections in these states under the “Modi Ki Guarantee” campaign.
Prime Minister Modi has already begun deliberations, meeting senior BJP leaders after addressing a victory rally at the party headquarters on Saturday. Separately, Union Home Minister Amit Shah held discussions with Parvesh. Party president J.P. Nadda and Shah also convened on Sunday to strategize government formation.
Apart from Parvesh, Delhi’s seven BJP MPs are considered strong contenders for the top post. Among them is Manoj Tiwari, a Bhojpuri actor-singer and politician who has long harbored ambitions of becoming chief minister. Tiwari has cultivated significant support from Delhi’s Purvanchali community—migrants and settlers from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh—a group instrumental in the BJP’s victory.
There is also speculation that the BJP might choose a woman leader to head its government in Delhi, signaling its emphasis on gender representation in politics. If so, potential candidates include two-time councilor Shikha Roy, who defeated AAP’s Saurabh Bhardwaj in Greater Kailash, and Bansuri Swaraj, daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj and a first-time MP from the New Delhi Lok Sabha seat.
The BJP’s reluctance to announce a chief ministerial candidate before the elections paid off, with the leadership instead relying on Modi’s appeal. However, this approach has led to intense lobbying now, with candidates positioning themselves as deserving leaders.
Parvesh has sought to establish himself as the frontrunner by making public appearances and engaging with his native village of Mundka. Speaking to reporters, he emphasized plans to develop the Yamuna riverfront, portraying himself as a leader ready to take charge. Even his daughters joined the media campaign, stating that their father enjoyed the “blessings of PM Modi and Amit Shah.”
The decision on who will lead Delhi is expected soon as the BJP prepares to make a significant political statement with its return to power in the capital.
