Can leader become CM without being MLA?

The BJP has secured a sweeping victory in the Delhi Assembly Elections 2025, but the party is yet to announce its Chief Ministerial candidate.  

BJP’s Victory and the CM Conundrum 

 The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a decisive victory in the Delhi Assembly Elections 2025, reclaiming power in the national capital after 27 years. However, unlike AAP, which projected Arvind Kejriwal as its chief ministerial candidate, the BJP contested without a declared face for the top post. Now, speculation is rife about who will take the helm.  

Who Are the Frontrunners for Delhi CM?

  Among the top contenders for the position of Delhi Chief Minister are:  
- Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma–The BJP candidate who defeated Arvind Kejriwal in New Delhi.  
- Virendra Sachdeva–The Delhi BJP chief, who did not contest the elections.  
- Manoj Tiwari – BJP MP from North East Delhi.  

While Verma’s path seems clear, if Sachdeva or Tiwari is chosen, additional steps will be required as neither are MLAs.  

Can a Non-MLA Become CM?

 Yes. According to Article 164(4) of the Indian Constitution, a non-legislator can be appointed Chief Minister, but they must secure an MLA seat within six months of taking office. Failure to do so results in stepping down.  

Past Examples of Non-MLA Chief Ministers

  - Yogi Adityanath(UP, 2017) – Was an MP before becoming CM, later won an MLA seat.  
- Uddhav Thackeray(Maharashtra, 2019) – Held no elected position when he became CM, later won a seat.  
- Pushkar Singh Dhami (Uttarakhand, 2022) – Lost his election but later won another seat to remain CM.  
- Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal, 2011 & 2021) – Became CM despite not being an MLA, won a seat later.  

What Next for Delhi?

With BJP’s leadership yet to announce its CM pick, all eyes are now on the party high command. If the chosen leader is not an MLA, a strategic by-election will follow to retain the position.