BJP plans to field former MPs and experienced leaders in Delhi Assembly elections, pending final decision.
New Delhi: As Delhi gears up for the Assembly elections between mid-February and March 2025, the BJP is strategically planning to strengthen its position. The party is considering fielding three out of four former MPs, who were previously denied Lok Sabha tickets, in the state elections. This move reflects BJP’s calculated approach to ticket distribution, aiming to leverage the experience and popularity of these leaders in key constituencies. It also signals the party’s determination to challenge AAP’s dominance and present a strong alternative to the incumbent government.
A source within the Delhi BJP revealed that the party plans to field three former MPs in the Assembly elections. The first list of candidates, expected to be released soon, is likely to include Parvesh Sahib Singh, former MP from West Delhi; Meenakshi Lekhi, former MP from New Delhi; and Ramesh Bidhuri, former MP from South Delhi. However, the party appears less confident about Harsh Vardhan, former MP from Chandni Chowk. The final decision will be made by the BJP central leadership.
A senior Delhi BJP leader, on the condition of anonymity, stated that the candidacy of all incumbent MLAs is nearly finalised, with the party planning to field them again in their respective constituencies. He also revealed that former MP Parvesh Verma is being considered for the New Delhi seat to contest against AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal. Additionally, Harish Khurana, son of late Delhi Chief Minister Madan Lal Khurana and current Delhi BJP secretary, is being considered for the Moti Nagar seat.
While the final list of candidates is yet to be decided, these names are reportedly under serious consideration. The leader added that former MPs Ramesh Bidhuri and Meenakshi Lekhi are also in the running. It is almost certain that Bidhuri will contest from Kalkaji, currently represented by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. Lekhi is expected to run from Greater Kailash, a seat currently held by AAP’s Saurabh Bharadwaj.
However, former MP Dr Harsh Vardhan’s name is reportedly not under consideration for the upcoming Assembly elections. Sources suggest that he has opted out, requesting the state BJP unit to field another candidate in his place. While he plans to actively campaign for the party, he will not contest.
Additionally, sources said that Satish Upadhyay, former Vice Chairperson of the NDMC, is being considered for BJP’s Malviya Nagar Assembly seat in the upcoming elections. With his experience in local governance, Upadhyay could strengthen the party’s appeal in the constituency. When asked about the reports, Upadhyay expressed surprise but reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and readiness to follow its decision. If selected, his candidacy could enhance BJP’s prospects in a constituency where local governance plays a key role.
Other prominent figures under consideration include BJP national general secretary and former Rajya Sabha MP Dushyant Gautam for Karol Bagh, and Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, who may contest from either Kasturba Nagar or Vishwas Nagar.
Recent BJP recruits Arvinder Singh Lovely and Kailash Gahlot, both seasoned politicians, are reportedly in the running for tickets in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Lovely, a former Delhi Congress chief, and Gahlot, an ex-AAP minister, bring strong political credentials that could help the BJP attract voters from their former parties. Additionally, Commando Surender Singh, a former AAP MLA, is being considered for the Delhi Cantt seat, where his military background could appeal to defence personnel. These moves reflect BJP’s strategy to strengthen its voter base by bringing in experienced leaders from rival parties.
However, none of these names are final, as the ultimate decision rests with the BJP’s national leadership. The party is expected to release its first list of candidates by mid-December.