Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Shake-Up: Sunder Singh Thakur, Kuldeep Pathania in the Race for Ministerial Posts!

Himachal Pradesh(The Uttam Hindu): Himachal Pradesh’s political scene is abuzz with discussions about the upcoming cabinet expansion under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. With the Sukhu government completing its two-and-a-half-year tenure, the cabinet is set for reshuffling, with key positions up for grabs. Among the front-runners for the vacant ministerial position are Sunder Singh Thakur, Kuldeep Pathania, Sanjay Ratn, and Ashish Butel. The final decision, however, rests with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who will consider regional and caste factors before making the appointment.

There are also rumors of one or two ministers being dropped, particularly from the Shimla parliamentary area, where five ministers are already in the cabinet. This has raised concerns over the lack of representation for Kangra and Mandi districts. Sunder Singh Thakur, an MLA from Kullu, is seen as a strong contender for the position, as there is currently no representation from the Mandi parliamentary area.

In Kangra district, either Kuldeep Pathania, Sanjay Ratn, or Ashish Butel may secure a cabinet post, especially if any existing ministers are removed. Dhani Ram Shandil, a current minister, is expected to be dropped, which could pave the way for Pathania’s elevation. If Pathania becomes a minister, Sanjay Ratn could be made the new Assembly Speaker.

Additionally, changes in ministerial portfolios are expected, with underperforming ministers possibly losing their departments. Amid factional tensions within the Himachal Congress, Rahul Gandhi has taken note of the internal discord and has called for a meeting with state leaders. The final decision on the cabinet expansion is likely to be made in this upcoming meeting, which will determine the fate of several ministers in the Sukhu cabinet.