The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in Rajasthan, overthrowing the Congress government led by Ashok Gehlot. The victory was the result of an intense month-long campaign, featuring rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other top BJP leaders across Rajasthan.
However, the BJP has yet to announce a candidate for the Chief Minister position, with the national leadership expected to make the announcement soon.
Here are the seven BJP leaders in contention for the top post in Rajasthan:
1. Vasundhara Raje: The former Chief Minister has a strong following throughout Rajasthan. Raje, who is 70 years old, led the BJP to two massive victories in the state. She started her political career in 1984 and has held various positions within the BJP. Raje became the state’s first woman Chief Minister in 2003 and has been elected multiple times to both the state assembly and Lok Sabha.
2. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat: In the 2019 general election, Shekhawat showcased his political prowess by defeating Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s son. He was also ranked among the top choices for Chief Ministership in a recent survey.
3. Diya Kumari: A member of the Jaipur royal family, Kumari joined the BJP in 2013 and has won three elections since then. In the 2019 general election, she achieved a significant victory margin of 5.51 lakh votes. Kumari is admired for blending her royal heritage with a down-to-earth persona and has gained prominence through her developmental work in her constituency.
4. Baba Balaknath: The BJP’s victory in Rajasthan could pave the way for the rise of another ‘yogi’ – spiritual leader and Alwar MP Baba Balaknath. Known as the yogi of Rajasthan, he is considered a strong Hindutva leader who could change the caste narrative of the state. Balaknath is known for his controversial remarks, including comparing his contest against Imran Khan to an “India-Pakistan” match.
5. Arjun Ram Meghwal: Meghwal is recognized for his trademark green and orange turban and believes in letting his work speak for itself. He has a strong administrative background and currently manages the Law Ministry. Meghwal has played a crucial role in managing the government’s agenda in Parliament and gathering support for various bills.
6. Kirodi Lal Meena: A BJP veteran, Meena was brought into the Rajasthan contest with the aim of winning over the Meena community. His efforts seem to have paid off, considering the party’s performance in Eastern Rajasthan. Meena, popularly known as “Doctor Sahab” and “Baba,” is among the frontrunners for the Chief Minister position.
7. CP Joshi: Rajasthan BJP’s state unit chief, Joshi, is seen as a strong contender for the Chief Minister’s post. He was appointed to the position earlier this year and has been credited with bringing together rival factions within the party and crafting a cohesive campaign focused on alleged anti-incumbency and Congress’ failures.
The BJP’s decision on the Chief Minister candidate is eagerly awaited by supporters and political observers in Rajasthan.
