As the BJP gears up to appoint Delhi's first Chief Minister in nearly three decades, caste and community dynamics are expected to play a pivotal role in the decision-making process. Party insiders reveal that the RSS and BJP's top brass will deliberate over the coming week to finalize candidates for significant posts, including the Chief Minister, Deputy CM, Speaker of the Assembly, and members of the Council of Ministers.

According to sources, the BJP will prioritize leaders who represent communities that played a significant role in their electoral victory. Brahmin, Jat, and Punjabi votes, in particular, were key contributors to the BJP's success, and these communities are likely to see representation in top posts. A senior BJP leader explained, “The CM or Deputy CM could be from these communities to ensure caste and regional balance.”

Prominent names being considered for the CM post include Parvesh Sahib Singh, a Jat leader and a giant killer who defeated Arvind Kejriwal, and Pawan Sharma, a Brahmin leader with close RSS ties. Leaders from other influential communities, such as Rekha Gupta (Baniya), Shikha Roy (Thakur), and Harish Khurana (Punjabi Khatri), are also in the fray. Former Congress ministers like Arvinder Singh Lovely and Raj Kumar Chauhan could emerge as surprise contenders due to their governance experience.

Additionally, the BJP leadership has set clear criteria for candidates: an age cut-off of 55, a clean image, and substantial organizational experience. The party is also expected to accommodate a woman leader in a prominent role, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.

The final decision will be made after extensive consultations. Observers will interact with MLAs and present recommendations to the BJP Legislature Party, which will ultimately reveal the CM pick. The process is expected to conclude after the Parliament's Budget Session on February 14.