Who Will Be The Next Bengal BJP President? 2 Women And A Sangh Face Among Top Contenders

Last Updated:March 17, 2025, 11:03 IST

Former MP Locket Chatterjee and Bengal MLA Agnimitra Paul are reportedly the frontrunners for the position, both known for their assertive yet non-controversial approach.

Agnimitra Paul (left) and Locket Chatterjee (right) are among the top contenders to be the next West Bengal BJP chief. (Image: PTI)

The BJP in West Bengal might see a change in leadership as sources indicate the party is considering two prominent women leaders to replace current chief Sukanta Majumdar. Former MP Locket Chatterjee and Bengal MLA Agnimitra Paul are the frontrunners for the position, both known for their assertive yet non-controversial approach.

Sources reveal that West Bengal Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, a significant figure in the state’s political landscape, supports both leaders. He reportedly maintains a positive working relationship with both Chatterjee and Paul and is unlikely to endorse a specific candidate, leaving the final decision to the party.

Despite losing the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, both women remain key figures for the BJP in West Bengal. Agnimitra Paul, a former fashion designer who joined the party in 2019, secured a significant victory in the 2021 Assembly election by defeating TMC’s Sayani Ghosh. Her tenure as an MLA has been marked by a strong working relationship with Adhikari, with both leading various agitations together. However, Paul’s close ties to Adhikari have sparked controversy within the party. Last year, when Paul was asked to fight from Medinipur — a seat traditionally held by BJP leader Dilip Ghosh – he reportedly called her “Suvendu Adhikari’s candidate".

Locket Chatterjee, a former actress and classical dancer, joined the BJP in 2015 and has steadily risen through the ranks. She replaced Roopa Ganguly as the BJP’s women’s wing president in 2017 and secured a resounding victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Hoogly. Chatterjee’s background as a member of a family of priests and her vocal support for Hindutva align with Adhikari’s strong views, potentially making her a favourable choice.

“If either of them becomes the party president, Suvendu Da will remain the real power centre," said a BJP MP requesting anonymity.

Despite the speculation surrounding Chatterjee and Paul, a third contender has emerged: Amitava Chakravorty, the current General Secretary (Organisation) of the Bengal BJP. Known for his low profile and non-confrontational approach, Chakravorty maintains close ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). While some within the BJP have raised concerns about potential bias, his strong ties to the RSS and his perceived discipline make him a viable candidate.

The BJP’s final decision on the next Bengal BJP President remains uncertain. The party’s unpredictable nature, as demonstrated by Sukanta Majumdar’s surprise appointment, suggests that a wildcard candidate could emerge. Majumdar himself was caught off guard by his appointment, learning about it through a congratulatory call from BL Santosh, a key figure in the BJP, followed by news flashes on television. The situation highlights the BJP’s modus operandi under Modi-Shah, where nothing is certain until officially announced.

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