Cabinet Expansion in Odisha Imminent, Says BJP State President Manmohan Samal

Bhubaneswar, July 9: Manmohan Samal, the re-elected Odisha BJP State unit president, announced on Tuesday that the state’s cabinet expansion is on the horizon, signaling a significant move to strengthen the Mohan Charan Majhi-led government. 

Samal, addressing the media after his unopposed re-election as state president, revealed that discussions with the central BJP leadership have been finalized, paving the way for the much-anticipated expansion.

“Cabinet expansion in Odisha will happen very soon. Talks with the central leadership have been held, and many decisions have been taken,” Samal stated, emphasizing the party’s commitment to streamlining governance. 

He also hinted at forthcoming appointments to the chairpersons of various state-run boards and corporations, noting that two meetings have already been conducted to prepare a list for these positions. “The appointments will be made after some discussions,” he added, assuring swift action.

The cabinet expansion is a critical step for the one-year-old Majhi government, which currently has six vacant ministerial berths. 

Since the Chief Minister and 15 other leaders took oath on June 12, 2024, the government has faced challenges, including criticism over law and order issues and governance issues. The expansion is expected to address these concerns by bringing in fresh leadership to bolster administrative efficiency.