Suvendu Government Set for Major Cabinet Expansion Tomorrow, New Faces Likely to Be Inducted

Kolkata: Three weeks after the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party government in West Bengal, preparations for cabinet expansion have now reached the final stage. There is a possibility of a major cabinet expansion on Monday in the government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. According to sources, around 30 to 33 ministers can be included in the new cabinet. Preparations for the swearing-in ceremony have also been intensified at the administrative level and constant contact is maintained with the Raj Bhavan.

Why has cabinet expansion become necessary? 

Suvendu Adhikari took oath as chief minister on 9 May. Only five ministers got a place in the cabinet along with him. Since then, most of the departments of the government have been handled by the chief minister himself. At present he has the responsibility of 43 out of 55 departments of the state. In such a situation, cabinet expansion is considered necessary to speed up the work of the government and reduce the administrative burden.

Which leaders can get a place? 

There is intense discussion about many big names in political circles. Continuous meetings are going on between the BJP organization and the state government. According to sources, ministers can be selected keeping in mind North Bengal, Jangalmahal, urban areas and women representation. The party is preparing to give a chance to some new faces along with experienced leaders.

Why is approval from Delhi considered important? 

The final consent of the BJP central leadership is awaited before the cabinet expansion. It is being told that several rounds of discussions have taken place regarding the distribution of ministerial posts and departments. The party leadership is paying special attention to maintaining regional and social balance so that a strong message can be given to the government in every part of the state.

Will a full size cabinet be seen for the first time?

After the formation of the first BJP government in Bengal, the initial cabinet was kept very small. According to the constitutional provisions, a cabinet of 44 to 45 ministers can be formed in the state. In such a situation, it is believed that after this expansion the government can be seen in almost full size for the first time.

How important is this expansion politically? 

Experts believe that this cabinet expansion is very important not only from administrative but also from political point of view. After the historic victory in the assembly elections, BJP is now trying to strike a balance between the organization and the government. The party also wants to strengthen the strategy for 2029 Lok Sabha elections by taking care of regional and social equations in the cabinet.