IN the assembly election in Chhattisgarh, where the BJP secured a comfortable victory, all eyes are now on the declaration of the chief minister by the party. Unlike the previous fifteen years when the party had a clear face in Dr. Raman Singh, the 2018 elections marked a setback for the BJP in the state, losing to a strong anti-incumbency wave. The Congress party made a significant comeback in 2018, but within five years, they faced a similar fate, losing the recent election. The BJP’s resurgence in the state is attributed not only to the party cadres but also to the strategic leadership of BJP State Incharge Om Mathur, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and co-Incharge Nitin Nabin, who played instrumental roles in securing the victory, along with state leaders led by BJP State President Arun Sao. As elected representatives of the party meet central leaders, the lack of clarity on the BJP’s chief ministerial face is evident. Unlike previous elections where the party prominently projected Dr. Raman Singh, this time, the BJP fought on the face of Narendra Modi without specifying a chief ministerial candidate.

 

The absence of a definite decision from the party leadership has fueled speculation among party cadres regarding the potential chief ministerial candidate. In the event the BJP leans towards an experienced and well-established figure, Dr. Raman Singh, a four-time MLA from Rajnandgaon and former chief minister, emerges as a strong contender. However, the fact that he served as the party’s face for 15 years, coinciding with the 2018 electoral defeat, poses a challenge. Arun Sao, current president of the BJP, stands as another formidable candidate. Despite being a first-time MLA, Sao played a pivotal role in leading the party to a remarkable victory and currently represents Bilaspur in the Parliament. While Sao qualifies for the position based on his role as party president, potential concerns about experience may influence the party’s decision. O P Choudhary, hailing from the distinguished IAS cadre, resigned from his position to join the BJP and is also a first-time MLA. His unique background adds an interesting dimension, particularly as another OBC face of the party.

In the event the party opts for a tribal representation, the choices may include Vishnudeo Sai, a former Union Minister, and the seasoned politician Ramvichar Netam. Similarly, if the focus is on a woman leader, Renuka Singh Saruta, currently a Union Minister of State, could be a compelling option. And there could also be more choices for the party, stated an insider. Dr. Raman Singh’s contributions are acknowledged for the party’s comeback performance, despite the challenges faced during the five-year period when he was a relatively distant figure. A senior party leader emphasized that the decision will not be arbitrary. Party observers will engage with elected legislators, and the chief minister will be decided based on the legislators’ choice, with the party leadership’s consent. As of now, no internal activity for the chief ministerial position has been observed.

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