Who will be the new Bengal BJP chief? Shamik Bhattacharya and Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato in race

After securing victory in the Lok Sabha elections, Sukanta Majumdar has taken up the position of Union Minister, creating a vacancy for the role of Bengal BJP president. Speculation is rife within the party about who will take on this important responsibility as the state prepares for the 2026 assembly elections. Several names have emerged as potential candidates, with differing opinions circulating within party circles.

Two of the leading contenders for the position are Shamik Bhattacharya and Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato. Shamik, currently a Rajya Sabha MP and state spokesperson, is considered a strong choice due to his eloquence and wide acceptance within the party. On the other hand, Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato, the party’s state general secretary and MP from Purulia, has gained attention as a rising leader. Mahato is known for his close association with Sukanta Majumdar, which could play in his favor.

Dilip Ghosh, the former state president, and a prominent BJP leader, is also reportedly in the running, though some sources suggest he may have fallen behind in the race. Jagannath Sarkar, another BJP MP, has also been mentioned, but his chances seem less likely at the moment.

The possibility of a female candidate is not off the table either, with names like Locket Chattopadhyay, Agnimitra Paul, and Debashree Chowdhury being considered. However, the party may lean toward a leader who can unify its base ahead of the crucial 2026 elections.

Subhendu Adhikari, the current Leader of the Opposition, has also been speculated as a possible candidate for the state president role. His leadership in the opposition has been effective, but this raises the question of who would take over his position if he were to assume the role of state president.

Shamik Bhattacharya appears to be a frontrunner, given his reputation as a widely acceptable and articulate leader. He has a strong presence in the party and is known for being an eloquent speaker, making him a preferred choice for many within the BJP.

Meanwhile, Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato is also gaining ground. Representing the Jangalmahal region, Mahato is a modest leader who has maintained a dignified approach while attacking political opponents. He has recently been active, writing several letters to the central government on various issues and targeting Mamata Banerjee. However, there are concerns about whether he is universally accepted across the state.

Ultimately, the decision lies with the central BJP leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. With Shah set to visit Bengal on October 24, it is expected that meetings with state leaders will help finalize the decision on who will become the next Bengal BJP president.