Lucknow: Following the formation of the BJP’s first government in West Bengal and the expansion of Samrat Chaudhary’s cabinet in Bihar, big news is now coming from Uttar Pradesh. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s cabinet is set to expand.
According to sources, the cabinet expansion is expected to take place on Sunday. Six new faces could be inducted into the cabinet.
Amidst rumors of a cabinet reshuffle, Chief Minister Yogi will meet Governor Anandiben Patel this evening. This meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. It is believed that the cabinet expansion may be discussed during this meeting.
The Uttar Pradesh government currently has a total of 54 ministers. Of these, 21 are cabinet ministers, 14 are ministers of state with independent charge, and 19 are ministers of state. The state’s 403 assembly seats allow a maximum of 60 ministers. Six seats are vacant. It is being reported that these vacant seats may be filled by new ministers.
Watch: CM Yogi draped a saffron sash on Shubhendu Adhikari, the Chief Minister bowed in respect after taking the oath.
Potential Ministerial Candidates in UP
Bhupendra Chaudhary – Jat (OBC) – Former BJP State President and MLC, hails from Moradabad.
Manoj Pandey – Brahmin (Upper Caste) – Rebel SP MLA from Unchahar, Rae Bareli.
Pooja Pal – Pal (OBC) – Rebel SP MLA from Chail, Kaushambi.
Ashok Kataria – Gurjar (OBC) – MLC – hails from Bijnor.
Krishna Paswan – Pasi (SC) – MLA from Khaga, Fatehpur.
Suresh Pasi – Pasi (SC) – MLA from Jagdishpur, Amethi, belonging to the Pasi community.
Surendra Diler – Valmiki (SC) – MLA from Khair, Aligarh.
Ashish Singh Ashu – Kurmi (OBC) – MLA from Mallawan in Hardoi.
It is worth noting that elections are scheduled to be held in Uttar Pradesh in February next year. It is believed that the cabinet expansion may also attempt to address regional caste equations with the upcoming elections in mind.