Talks of state Cabinet rejig refuse to die down

Mumbai: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state executive meet on Thursday was rife with buzz related to possible reshuffle in the state Cabinet and certain changes in the party’s state unit. There were talks that the BJP may replace its state chief, Raosaheb Danve.

There were also speculations that chief minister Devendra Fadnavis may opt for a rejig in his Cabinet in a month, once the Union cabinet sees a reshuffle.  

The state BJP working committee met in Borivali, Mumbai. Though such meetings occur every three months, it assumed significance in light of recent indications of a change of guard. “You need to be prepared for the next elections. The elections are less than two years away. So it is obvious that discussions would take place unofficially on this line,” said young Cabinet minister.

But the buzz is that all possible changes will only take place after a possible Union Cabinet reshuffle, which the Prime Minister is expected to carry out before September. Changes in the Maharashtra BJP will take place accordingly. “Changes in Delhi will give the political line in the state. Organisational changes are long-pending in party. But the party leadership will use his opportunity to form a team for 2019,” said senior leader.

The working committee was also abuzz with rumours of Congress leader Narayan Rane joining the BJP very soon. “Many people want him on board. We will welcome them to strengthen the party in the state,” Mr Fadnavis, remarked in his speech to party cadres on Thursday. “Mr Rane’s entry will have effects on party and government. Changes in organisation and Cabinet will take place only after it,” indicated another senior leader.

The BJP executive passed a resolution congratulating the state government for the farm loan waiver decision. “It was a historic decision as it is highest ever loan waiver in country. It shows the BJP’s commitment towards farmers,” read the resolution.