Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met Governor Anandiben Patel at the Raj Bhavan in Lucknow on Friday, fueling speculation that a long-pending cabinet expansion is likely to take place on Sunday. The meeting lasted for about 30 minutes, during which the CM is believed to have discussed the expansion plan with the Governor.
Cabinet Expansion on Cards
Sources indicate that the expansion could see the induction of around 10-12 new ministers, including some from the OBC, Dalit, and other backward communities to balance caste equations ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The current council of ministers has several vacancies, and the expansion is aimed at strengthening the government's outreach.
Possible Inductees
Among the probable names doing the rounds are several MLAs who have been loyal to the party. The expansion is also expected to include some women and youth faces to give a diverse representation. The move is seen as an attempt by the BJP to consolidate its position in the state, which sends the maximum number of MPs to Parliament.
Governor Anandiben Patel returned to Lucknow on Thursday after a visit to Delhi, and her meeting with the CM has added to the buzz. The cabinet expansion is expected to take place at the Raj Bhavan on Sunday, with the swearing-in ceremony likely to be held in the afternoon.
This will be the first major reshuffle in the Yogi Adityanath cabinet since the 2022 assembly elections. The BJP leadership has been under pressure to expand the cabinet to accommodate party workers and allies. The expansion is also crucial for the party's preparations for the 2024 general elections.
