In the run-up to the 2025 Vice-Presidential elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), backed by a robust NDA majority in the electoral college, is preparing a strategic shortlist that blends symbolism, ideology, regional outreach, and statesmanship. Unlike previous contests that demanded tight political maneuvering, this time the BJP has the comfort of numerical advantage, allowing it to focus on narrative building rather than coalition arithmetic.

The party’s shortlist for the Vice-President of India includes a diverse pool of names — current Governors, Cabinet stalwarts, former Chief Ministers, and ideologically aligned intellectuals from the RSS ecosystem. This array of potential candidates signals the BJP’s intent to underscore its expansive strategic bench strength and send calibrated political messages across the country.

Governors as Ideological Sentinels

Among the frontrunners from the gubernatorial ranks are:

• RN Ravi, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, known for his frequent run-ins with the DMK-led state government, is considered a face of the BJP’s assertive federal stance. Ravi’s background includes senior roles in the CBI, Intelligence Bureau, and as a Deputy National Security Adviser. He also played a pivotal role as the interlocutor during peace talks with NSCN(IM) and served as Governor of Nagaland and Meghalaya. His appointment could symbolize the BJP’s tough posture on internal security and federal authority.

• Arif Mohammad Khan, currently the Governor of Bihar, presents a blend of Muslim representation and reformist ideology. Known for his bold stands on Triple Talaq and support for the Uniform Civil Code, Khan's inclusion on the shortlist suggests BJP's effort to merge constitutional respectability with ideological depth.

• Thawar Chand Gehlot, the Governor of Karnataka, and a former Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, is another top contender. A seasoned Dalit face from the South, Gehlot’s presence on the list reflects BJP’s commitment to social representation and his strong command over parliamentary procedures.

Elder Statesmen for Gravitas

Names of senior leaders with significant parliamentary and administrative experience are also in the reckoning. These include:

• Manohar Lal Khattar, the former Chief Minister of Haryana, who recently handed over reins after serving two full terms. A seasoned RSS man, his name symbolizes generational transition and administrative continuity.

• Rajnath Singh, the current Defence Minister and a respected figure across party lines, could bring a sense of non-controversial statesmanship to the role. Singh's legacy includes terms as Home Minister, Uttar Pradesh CM, and BJP President.

• Om Birla, the current Lok Sabha Speaker, is another potential candidate who has demonstrated an ability to manage a politically diverse House. His elevation would reflect BJP’s appreciation for parliamentary balance and procedural propriety.

RSS-Aligned Intellectuals in the Mix

Apart from political veterans, the BJP is also considering a few senior intellectuals and public thinkers from the Sangh Parivar ecosystem. These individuals, often not involved in electoral politics, carry significant ideological heft and enjoy public credibility. Their possible elevation would signal the BJP’s commitment to intellectual rigor and value-based governance.

Such names may include figures involved in think tanks, cultural organizations, or ideological forums who align closely with Hindutva values and Bharatiya thought leadership. While their names have not been officially disclosed, insiders suggest their profiles are being evaluated for long-term ideological messaging.

Strategic Messaging Behind the Selection

The NDA’s comfortable electoral majority makes this election a one-sided affair in terms of votes, but the real stakes lie in symbolism. The party appears to be considering several themes while making its decision:

• Regional Representation: With leaders from the South, North, and East on the list, the BJP aims to consolidate its pan-India appeal.

• Ideological Clarity: Leaders like Khan and Ravi showcase the party’s focus on core values such as national unity, cultural identity, and governance reform.

• Parliamentary Experience: Names like Gehlot, Khattar, and Birla highlight BJP’s intent to bring parliamentary propriety and legislative insight into the Vice President’s role, who is also the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

• Generational Shift: With former Chief Ministers and second-rung leaders in contention, the party could be signaling a change of guard and preparation for the next decade.

Why This VP Race Is Different

Unlike in previous elections where the Vice-President's role was sometimes seen as ceremonial, the BJP seems to view this position as a crucial strategic tool. The Vice President acts as:

• Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, overseeing critical legislation

• A constitutional bridge between different arms of the state

• A symbol of national consensus or ideological resolve

With increasing polarization and frequent disruptions in Parliament, the BJP may be looking for someone who can maintain order, command respect across benches, and align with the larger ideological project of the party.

Conclusion: Balancing Power with Symbolism

The BJP’s shortlist for the 2025 Vice-Presidential election is not just about filling a constitutional vacancy — it is a strategic narrative exercise. Whether it’s through appointing a Muslim reformist, a southern Dalit stalwart, a retired intelligence official, or a veteran parliamentarian, the party seeks to strike a balance between power politics and nation-building symbolism.

As the NDA marches ahead with electoral confidence, the focus now shifts to how this Vice-Presidential pick will reflect the next phase of BJP’s political journey — one rooted in ideology, broadened through outreach, and legitimized by parliamentary decorum.

The official announcement is expected in the coming weeks, and political observers are watching closely to see which path the BJP charts in choosing a figure who will hold the second-highest constitutional post in the country.

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