What does Chhagan Bhujbal's cabinet induction mean for Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, Chhagan Bhujbal has been inducted into CM Devendra Fadnavis's cabinet. This comes as Maharashtra faces pressing electoral deadlines and highlights the ongoing tussle for OBC representation. Bhujbal's history of activism and influence may reshape the party dynamics as elections near.
Key Takeaways
- Chhagan Bhujbal has been inducted into the Maharashtra cabinet.
- He is likely to manage the food and civil supply department.
- His induction strengthens OBC representation in state politics.
- The Supreme Court's order on local elections adds urgency to his role.
- Bhujbal has a history of advocating for OBC rights.
Mumbai, May 20 (NationPress) In a modest ceremony, Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan officially swore in seasoned NCP figure and founder of Samata Parishad, Chhagan Bhujbal, as a member of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' cabinet on Tuesday. The swearing-in event was attended by Chief Minister Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, alongside ministers, government officials, and notable party leaders including NCP's working president Praful Patel and state chief Sunil Tatkare.
Post-ceremony, Bhujbal expressed his gratitude, stating, “I extend my thanks to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, both Deputy Chief Ministers, as well as Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel. I am also grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Additionally, I thank all the residents, activists, and office-bearers from my constituency of Yeola-Lasalgaon, as well as all the members of Samata Parishad who have supported me.”
It is anticipated that Bhujbal will oversee the food and civil supply department, a position he previously held during the administrations of Uddhav Thackeray and then Eknath Shinde from 2019 to 2024.
Following his exclusion from the cabinet expansion on December 15, Bhujbal had expressed his disappointment openly, particularly as he had significantly championed the OBC cause during last year's Assembly elections.
After abstaining from various party activities, Bhujbal re-engaged after interventions from party president Ajit Pawar and working president Praful Patel. His frustration heightened after failing to secure nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections on two occasions.
A unanimous decision was made by NCP leader Ajit Pawar, working president Praful Patel, and state unit chief Sunil Tatkare, facilitating Bhujbal's entry into the cabinet. The NCP required a significant OBC presence, especially following the resignation of another OBC leader, Dhananjay Munde, during March's budget session due to the tragic murder of Beed Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Munde had previously managed the food and civil supply department, which was temporarily overseen by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar after his departure.
Bhujbal’s inclusion is pivotal for the NCP, particularly as the Supreme Court instructed the state government to finalize local and civic body elections within a four-month period. He has been a key figure in advocating for the protection of OBC reservation amidst a major conflict with pro-Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange. Furthermore, Bhujbal has been a staunch supporter of the caste-based census, recently approved by the Central Government.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Chhagan Bhujbal's induction into the Maharashtra cabinet. This event not only underscores the NCP's strategy to bolster OBC representation but also reflects broader electoral dynamics in the state. With upcoming local elections and pressing societal issues, Bhujbal's role will be critical in shaping the NCP's future and addressing the constituents' needs.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Chhagan Bhujbal?
Chhagan Bhujbal is a senior leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the founder of Samata Parishad, known for his advocacy for OBC rights.
What position has Bhujbal been given in the cabinet?
Chhagan Bhujbal is expected to oversee the food and civil supply department, a role he has previously held.
Why was Bhujbal's induction significant?
His induction is seen as crucial for enhancing OBC representation in the cabinet and addressing political challenges ahead of local elections.
What prompted Bhujbal's return to cabinet?
After expressing dissatisfaction over his previous exclusion, Bhujbal's return was facilitated by party leadership seeking a strong OBC face for the upcoming challenges.
What are the implications of the Supreme Court's directive?
The Supreme Court's mandate for local elections to be completed within four months adds urgency to Bhujbal's role in the cabinet, emphasizing the need for effective governance.
