Why Shivraj Singh Chouhan is leading the race for new BJP president

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan appears to be the leading contender in the race for the BJP’s next national president.

While several other names have also been in circulation, Chouhan seems to be emerging as the strongest candidate at this point. A clear indication of this is his upcoming ‘padyatra’ (foot march) from his Lok Sabha constituency Vidisha on May 25. During the march, Chouhan will cover 20–25 km on foot daily, visiting every Assembly segment within his parliamentary seat. His journey will span two to three days each week. Moreover, this march will not be limited to Vidisha, as Chouhan plans to travel on foot through other constituencies as well.

Reaching out to the masses

With no general elections for the next four years and no state elections in Madhya Pradesh for three and a half, this foot march signals an impending shift within the BJP.

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During the march, Chouhan will not only spread awareness about central government schemes but will also interact with beneficiaries and assess the impact of these initiatives first-hand. “My ‘padyatra’ aims to ensure that the benefits of central schemes reach the last person, empowering every village, every farmer, and every woman. We will leave no stone unturned,” he said. Chouhan is clearly stepping into his possible new role with dedication and groundwork.

Bridge between party and govt

Chouhan is more than just a politician—he represents the BJP tradition that upholds simplicity, rural roots, and middle-class values. Though not confrontational, his presence is such that he cannot be ignored.

In the strategic political landscape shaped by Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chouhan is seen as someone capable of balancing both the party and the government. His reach even extends across party lines, making him a potential bridge in resolving contentious issues between the government and the Opposition.

What sets him apart?

What distinguishes Chouhan from his peers is his humility, deep administrative experience, and natural allegiance to the organisation.

The BJP seems poised for another leadership transition—not through elections, but through ‘signals’. Typically, a consensus emerges from the interplay between the RSS’s concerns, Modi-Shah strategy, and political pragmatism. Chouhan now leads this informal race. His recently announced ‘padyatra’ is more than a campaign—it feels like a prelude to a larger role, almost like a forewarning of a new reign.

The message within the BJP is clear: the party’s future lies in reconnecting with its grassroots. In an age dominated by high-tech, digital, and media-centric politics, Chouhan’s ‘padyatra’ sets him apart.

‘Mama’ in public eyes

Many aspirants have their eyes set on the BJP president’s post. Some hail from the organisational wing, others from the government.

What makes Chouhan stand out is his deep understanding of the gap between leadership and grassroots workers. One of the longest-serving chief ministers of Madhya Pradesh and now a Union minister, his public image remains that of ‘Mama’ (maternal uncle)—a trusted, approachable, and dialogue-driven leader. Chouhan’s leadership style, rooted in gentle communication, regional sensitivity, and respect for veteran party workers, can revitalise the party’s organisational fabric.

Dominating the race

When the BJP registered a sweeping victory in the 2023 Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, many expected Chouhan to retain the chief ministership. But his move from Bhopal to Delhi suggested that both the BJP and RSS had other plans for him.

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Among other contenders was former Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar, seen as a close aide of PM Modi. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s name was also floated, especially as the BJP seeks to strengthen its base in South India, where Tamil Nadu and Kerala are set for Assembly polls in 2026. Sitharaman was seen as a strategic choice to appeal to women voters. However, Chouhan now appears to be eclipsing all other candidates.

(This article was originally published in The Federal Desh.)