BJP Sets January 20 for Announcement of New National President
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially announced the schedule for electing its next national president. The party will reveal the name of its new chief on January 20, 2026. This announcement comes as the six-year tenure of current president Jagat Prakash Nadda concludes.
Nomination Process and Election Timeline
BJP MP and national returning officer K Laxman opened the nomination process on Friday, January 17. According to the party's notification, candidates can file their nominations between 2 pm and 4 pm on January 19. The withdrawal of nominations is permitted between 5 pm and 6 pm on the same day.
After the nomination period closes, the BJP will review all submissions from potential candidates. If necessary, the party will conduct internal polling before announcing the final result. Party sources indicate that the election result will likely be declared on the afternoon of January 20.
Nitin Nabin Emerges as Frontrunner
Insiders within the BJP suggest that 45-year-old Nitin Nabin will be the sole candidate for the national president position. Nabin currently serves as the party's national working president and previously held the position of Bihar minister. If elected, he would become the youngest person ever to hold the BJP national president role.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and outgoing president Jagat Prakash Nadda are expected to lead the process of proposing and endorsing Nabin's candidacy. Other prominent BJP leaders from various states will also serve as proposers for his nomination.
National Council to Ratify Election
The BJP's national council, the party's highest policy-making body, will convene immediately after the presidential election. All national council members have been instructed to remain in Delhi through January 21 to participate in this crucial meeting.
The council will perform two important functions: ratifying the election of the new BJP president and passing resolutions on key policy issues. Members include key ministers, Members of Parliament, BJP Chief Ministers, and current and former state presidents.
Historical Context and Ceremonial Plans
January 20 holds special significance for the BJP, as this was the date in 2020 when Jagat Prakash Nadda officially assumed the national president position. The party has maintained a tradition of electing its national presidents unopposed, and this election appears set to continue that pattern.
Party insiders reveal that arrangements are underway for a grand oath-taking ceremony near the BJP's national headquarters in Delhi. The ceremony will mark the formal transition of leadership within India's ruling political party.
National council members will begin arriving in the capital over the weekend to participate in both the election and subsequent policy discussions. The entire process represents a significant leadership transition for the BJP as it prepares for future political challenges and opportunities.
