Punjab, India – In a significant political development, the Bhagwant Mann cabinet is set to undergo its fourth expansion, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann seeking time from Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to induct five new ministers. This reshuffle comes on the heels of the resignation of four sitting ministers, marking a pivotal moment for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab.
The ministers stepping down from their positions include Revenue Minister Brahm Shankar Jhimpa, Local Bodies Minister Balkar Singh, Tourism Minister Anmol Gagan Mann, and Mines and Geology Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra. This cabinet reshuffle is not only a response to political pressures but also reflects ongoing controversies surrounding some of the outgoing ministers.
Among the new faces expected to join the cabinet are Dr. Ravjot Singh from Sham Chaurasi, Hardeep Singh Mundia from Sahnewal, Tarunpreet Singh Saund and Barinder Kumar Goyal from Khanna, as well as Mohinder Bhagat, who recently won the by-election from Jalandhar West. The induction ceremony will be held at the Raj Bhavan in a simple event where the new ministers will take their oaths of office and secrecy.
Chief Minister Mann's government has been under scrutiny, with opposition parties expressing outrage over allegations concerning Balkar Singh's recent conduct. Furthermore, Anmol Gagan Mann's inactivity in her department has come under fire, particularly following her recent marriage, which reportedly did not sit well with the Chief Minister.
Political analysts suggest that the reshuffle aims not only to enhance government functionality but also to address public dissatisfaction regarding ministerial performance. Currently, the Punjab cabinet comprises 14 ministers in addition to the Chief Minister, with a maximum capacity of 18 ministers allowed.
The cabinet expansion highlights the AAP's aim to rejuvenate its leadership and address accountability within the government while maintaining a focus on development and governance in Punjab. As the new ministers prepare to step into their roles, all eyes will be on how this reshuffle impacts the state's stepping d in the coming months.
