Major reshuffle, other strategic moves likely in BJP govt in Odisha!

As the Mohan Majhi-led BJP government in Odisha completes its first year, major political and administrative changes are expected after the Rath Yatra. The State government and party organisation are preparing for decisive moves to boost governance and party coordination.

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With the first anniversary of the BJP government under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi now complete, significant decisions are expected post-Rath Yatra. The saffron party is set to expedite pending tasks within both the government and the organisation.

While the Mohan government focused heavily on developmental initiatives in its first year, discussions have now intensified on accelerating key political decisions. A cabinet expansion is imminent, and appointments for vacant leadership positions in boards and corporations are also in the pipeline. Notably, the long-awaited appointment of the state BJP president is expected to be finalised soon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a recent visit to Odisha, praised the developmental work of the State government and extended his support. With that boost, the party is now gearing up to strengthen the organisation further and ensure smoother coordination with the government machinery.

Despite completing a year, six ministerial berths still remain vacant, presenting an ongoing challenge for the ruling BJP. Sources suggest that the first phase of the cabinet expansion may include departmental reshuffles and induction of new MLAs into ministerial roles. Chief Minister Majhi hinted at such moves during an exclusive interview with OTV.

There is widespread speculation about new faces likely to join the cabinet, with names such as Jayanarayan Mishra, Babu Singh, Irasis Acharya, Amar Nayak, Sanatan Bijuli, and Ashrit Patnaik doing the rounds. A blueprint has also been prepared to fill approximately 150 vacant leadership roles across various boards and corporations.

These delayed decisions are seen as part of the government’s broader strategy to fulfill its development promises and demonstrate accountability to the public. With Rath Yatra marking a turning point, the BJP is expected to act swiftly on these matters.

“Our state president will be nominated soon. The process is on and will be completed soon. The car festival (Rath Yatra) of Lord Jagannath is to begin, and let it come to an end first. Thereafter, the rest will be done,” BJP’s Odisha in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar said.

“Those persons who are dedicated to the party are being selected, and the process is almost complete. What I feel, the appointment of different board and corporation heads will be carried out in the near future. Appointment of the new ministers will also be done soon,” senior BJP leader Pradeep Purohit expressed.

"The main reason behind the unusual delay is uncertainty in nominating the party (BJP) state president. No solution to the uncertainty has been found yet. Once the new president's name becomes clear, the state head in turn will decide who will be appointed to different boards and corporations,” noted political analyst, Akshay Sahoo, opined.