Devendra Fadnavis calls meet to improve BJP face

Worried about the party image after exit of senior minister Eknath Khadse on charges of corruption, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had convened a meeting of all BJP ministers on Tuesday night at his residence. The ministers are said to have discussed the political situation and the possible damage to the party.

Mr Khadse stepped down from all his posts last week after the party was pressurised by all quarters, as he was an accused in many corruption cases. Though, the chief minister had initially given a clean chit to Mr Khadse, he asked the senior minister to resign because of the signals sent by the party high command. Meanwhile, the opposition party members took the advantage of the situation.

Sources in the BJP said that the ministers informed the CM that the party’s image should be enhanced and anything that can spoil its image must be kept away.

“The chief minister assured them that all efforts will be made to change the party image,” the sources said.

It was also discussed in the meeting as to whom the responsibility of Khadse’s department would be given. However, all the ministers were cautious as the revenue department has become a controversial one after the corruption cases that were highlighted by the media. “No decision has been taken about the replacement yet. It will be soon decided,” the sources said.

Cabinet expansion too was discussed in the meeting, which is likely to take place in second week of June. The government, to enhance its image, might rope in a few fresh faces. Also, the party will have to give its due share to the small alliance partners including Swabhiman Shetkari Sanghatana, Shiv Sangram and Rashtriya Samaj Paksha. But the power rests with the CM to decide on sensitive issues, the sources added.

The CM also instructed all the ministers to remain away from any possible controversy that can put the party in trouble.