New Delhi: <\/strong>The ongoing tussle between the BJP and the RSS over selecting the party\u2019s next national president has delayed the decision, leading to an extension of JP Nadda\u2019s tenure by 40 days. While the RSS is pushing for a leader aligned with its ideology, the BJP prefers a figure like Nadda, who has been leading the party since 2020.<\/p>\n

Why the Delay in Announcing BJP’s New President?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The delay stems from a lack of consensus between the two organizations. Additionally, the party has not yet completed its internal organizational elections\u2014only 12 out of 36 state units have conducted them, whereas at least 18 are required to proceed with the national president\u2019s election.<\/p>\n

Speaking to RSS insiders from three states, an official commented, \u201cThe RSS does not interfere in party matters but provides guidance when consulted.\u201d When asked if its advice was sought regarding the new president, he smiled and said, \u201cYes, we gave it long ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

He further emphasized that the BJP is a political organization, while the RSS is a social one, adding, \u201cA guardian advises the younger generation\u2014sometimes with leniency, sometimes strictly.\u201d However, he reassured that despite differences, the RSS never abandons its role as BJP\u2019s ideological guide.<\/p>\n

RSS vs BJP: The Disagreement Over Leadership<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\n
1. Divergent Candidate Preferences:<\/strong>\n
   \n
   • The BJP favors a leader like JP Nadda, who aligns with its independent functioning.<\/li>\n
   • The RSS seeks a leader with strong organizational experience who values Sangh\u2019s input.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
   • Nadda\u2019s Controversial Statement:<\/strong>\n
     \n
     • During the Lok Sabha elections, Nadda remarked that the BJP had become self-sufficient and no longer needed the RSS\u2019s support.<\/li>\n
     • The party\u2019s silence on this statement deepened tensions with the Sangh.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
     • RSS\u2019s Strategic Pressure:<\/strong>\n
       \n
       • The RSS has scheduled its annual meeting from March 21\u201323<\/strong>, signaling urgency for BJP to finalize a decision before then.<\/li>\n
       • An RSS functionary hinted that the timing of the meeting itself conveys dissatisfaction with the delay.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

         Potential Candidates for BJP President<\/strong><\/h3>\n

         The RSS has reportedly suggested two key recommendations for the new BJP chief:<\/p>\n

         \n
         1. An Organizationally Strong Leader:<\/strong>\n
            \n
            • The Sangh prefers someone with deep party roots and a strong commitment to its ideology.<\/li>\n
            • Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Manohar Lal Khattar<\/strong> are being considered for the role.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
            • A Woman President:<\/strong>\n
              \n
              • A push for a woman leader in alignment with the Nari Shakti Vandan Act (2029)<\/strong> could boost BJP\u2019s appeal among female voters.<\/li>\n
              • However, the RSS awaits BJP\u2019s stance on this proposal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                Renewed Friction Between BJP and RSS?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

                The post-Lok Sabha election differences between the BJP and the RSS seem to be resurfacing:<\/p>\n

                \n
                • After the elections, Mohan Bhagwat\u2019s speech<\/strong> hinted at RSS’s dissatisfaction with the BJP.<\/li>\n
                • While no direct conflict has erupted over the presidential appointment, Sangh insiders are questioning the delay.<\/li>\n
                • The issue is expected to be addressed in the March 21\u201323 meeting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Religious Beliefs Affecting the Announcement?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

                  Sources suggest that the BJP might also be delaying the announcement due to religious factors:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                  • Holashtak (March 14\u2013April 14)<\/strong> is an inauspicious period in Hindu traditions, during which major decisions are avoided.<\/li>\n
                  • The Kharmas period (March 14\u2013April 14)<\/strong>, when new appointments are traditionally postponed, might be influencing the timing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    What\u2019s Next?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

                    JP Nadda\u2019s 40-day extension<\/strong> ensures he remains in office until April 20.<\/p>\n

                    \n
                    • The BJP National Executive and Council meetings are scheduled from April 18\u201320<\/strong>, where the new president is likely to be announced.<\/li>\n
                    • Until then, the RSS and BJP will continue deliberations, attempting to reach a middle ground on leadership.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      As the internal power struggle continues, all eyes are on whether the BJP will assert its autonomy or bow to the RSS\u2019s influence in shaping its leadership.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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