Is Newly Elected Ludhiana (West) MLA Arora Joining the Punjab Cabinet?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, newly elected Ludhiana (West) MLA Sanjeev Arora has been inducted into the Punjab Cabinet. This expansion brings the total number of ministers to 17, as Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria officiated the oath-taking ceremony.
Key Takeaways
- Sanjeev Arora has been inducted into the Punjab Cabinet, marking a significant political development.
- The Cabinet now consists of 17 ministers, including the Chief Minister.
- This induction follows a bypoll victory where Arora defeated his opponent by 10,637 votes.
- Speculations exist regarding possible reshuffles and a ministerial vacancy.
- The AAP party remains focused on fulfilling commitments made during the election campaign.
Chandigarh, July 3 (NationPress) On Thursday, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria officially administered the oath of office and secrecy to Sanjeev Arora, the newly elected legislator from Ludhiana (West), at the Punjab Raj Bhawan. This induction marks an expansion of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Cabinet to 17 members within a legislative assembly of 117 seats.
With this addition, the Cabinet now consists of 17 ministers, including the Chief Minister, while it is permitted to have a maximum of 18 members. This marks the seventh expansion of the Mann Cabinet in just over three years, following the last expansion in September, which brought in five new members—Hardeep Singh Mundian, Barinder Kumar Goyal, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Ravjot Singh, and Mohinder Bhagat—after the removal of four ministers.
The removed officials include Balkaur Singh, Anmol Gagan Mann, Chetan Singh Jauramajra, and Brahm Shankar Jhimpa.
Arora, a businessman-turned-politician and former Rajya Sabha member, won the Ludhiana (West) bypoll held on June 23, defeating his closest competitor by a margin of 10,637 votes.
He had resigned from the Upper House on Tuesday, and his entry into the state Cabinet was anticipated, as AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal had pledged during the election campaign that Arora would be appointed a minister if elected.
Having been elected to the Rajya Sabha from Punjab on April 10, 2022, Arora's term was scheduled to conclude on April 9, 2028.
Speculation surrounds the potential removal of one minister, which would leave two vacancies in the Cabinet, expected to be filled later this year. Additionally, a reshuffle of ministerial portfolios is likely, with announcements to follow the oath-taking ceremony.
Sources indicate that while the party aimed to fill all Cabinet positions, the recent by-election in Taran Tarn following the death of AAP lawmaker Kashmir Singh Sohal last week led to the decision to keep one seat vacant, allowing the party to assure voters that if they elect an AAP candidate, their representative will be included in the Council of Ministers.
Point of View
The induction of Sanjeev Arora into the Punjab Cabinet showcases the evolving dynamics of regional politics. The AAP's strategic decisions highlight their commitment to fulfilling promises made during campaigns, reflecting a broader trend towards responsive governance. As the political landscape shifts, the focus remains on delivering effective leadership for the constituents.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sanjeev Arora?
Sanjeev Arora is the newly elected MLA from Ludhiana (West) and a former member of the Rajya Sabha. He is a businessman turned politician.
What is the significance of Arora's induction into the Cabinet?
Arora's induction expands the Punjab Cabinet to 17 members, demonstrating AAP's commitment to fulfilling electoral promises and enhancing governance.
What was the outcome of the recent bypoll in Ludhiana (West)?
Sanjeev Arora won the Ludhiana (West) bypoll on June 23 by defeating his nearest rival by 10,637 votes.
How many members can the Punjab Cabinet have?
The Punjab Cabinet can have a maximum of 18 members, including the Chief Minister.
Are there any expected changes in the Cabinet?
There are speculations about potential reshuffling of portfolios and possible removals of ministers in the Cabinet.
