Punjab to Get New BJP Chief: Ashwani Sharma Photo Credit: The Tribune
Punjab is set to get a new BJP chief after the party appointed Ashwani Sharma as working president, tasking him with overseeing the internal organisational poll. Sharma’s elevation places him at the centre of BJP’s leadership transition in the state and signals a potentially significant shift in the party’s strategy ahead of key electoral battles.
According to The Tribune Punjab BJP insiders confirm that Pathankot MLA Ashwani Sharma has been named working president to oversee internal poll processes, ahead of formal elections for the state unit chief position. The nomination comes amid the resignation of Sunil Jakhar, who had earlier stepped down but continued in office at the party’s request. As working president, Sharma will now conduct the internal organisational elections and is widely seen as the frontrunner to succeed Jakhar when the new chief is formally elected.
Sharma is no stranger to state leadership. Having previously served two full terms as Punjab BJP president—from 2010 to 2013 and from 2020 until mid-2023—he commands respect across the party hierarchy. His reappointment underscores the BJP’s strategy to strengthen grassroots leadership and organisational stability under a seasoned veteran.
Former President Sunil Jakhar, a high-profile political figure, had earlier submitted his resignation amid internal differences. Sources indicate a senior national role—possibly in Rajasthan, where his father held influence—is being discussed for Jakhar. With structural groundwork now handled by Sharma, Jakhar’s next phase of service may align better with national duties.
Party insiders suggest that appointing Sharma as working president sends a clear message: the central leadership values experience and continuity in Punjab. Analogous structural reshuffles in other states—such as Jammu & Kashmir and Maharashtra—have similarly favoured appointments of working presidents who later rose to full presidency, reinforcing this pattern.
Senior BJP leaders such as Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and national general secretary Tarun Chugh have publicly welcomed Sharma’s appointment. Bittu praised his grassroots connect and organisational strengths, while Chugh hailed his leadership experience as an asset that will energise BJP’s cadre across Punjab. Both see Sharma as key to expanding the party’s footprint, especially in rural areas where BJP has lagged in influence.
With just under two years remaining before the 2027 Punjab assembly elections, political analysts believe this leadership transition marks a preparatory phase. Under Sharma’s stewardship, BJP aims to consolidate leanings—particularly among traditional core constituencies—while building credibility in newer regions.
Sharma’s path reflects deep Sangh roots. An ABVP activist in his college years, he rose through booth-level activism, served as Punjab’s BJP general secretary, and has consistently demonstrated organisational competence. His reputation as a committed party worker with strategic vision made him a compelling candidate to lead during internal restructuring.
This internal poll will test the strength of BJP’s democratic processes at the state level. As working president, Sharma will oversee nominations, voting, and final appointment of the new state chief. The speed and transparency with which these elections are conducted could have lasting impact on internal morale and public perception.
While Sharma assumes the operational reins, his appointment also carries political symbolism. In contrast to leaders parachuted in from Delhi or other states, he is seen as a homegrown operator—rooted in Punjab’s political and cultural terrain. Analysts expect him to close ranks between the party and local stakeholders, reviving organisational energy in Punjab’s political landscape.
Questions remain around whether Sharma’s interim tenure will become permanent, or whether his appointment is merely a temporary fix. Much depends on how internal polling unfolds and whether Jakhar returns in a different role or makes way for new leadership.
As the BJP adjusts its leadership matrix in Punjab, the key test will be translating organisational changes into electoral results. With Sharma guiding internal elections and strategy, the party’s ability to mobilise workers for campaigns and build voter momentum will now rest significantly on his leadership.
Under Sharma’s working presidency, BJP appears poised to reclaim lost ground by balancing seasoned experience with grassroots vigour. How effectively he navigates internal dynamics and external challenges—amid electoral rivalries in Punjab—may well determine BJP’s political trajectory in the state over the next two years.
For more spotlight stories click here
Follow us for latest updates:
