August 11
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has indicated that his cabinet could be expanded soon, fuelling speculation that Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur may be inducted into the Council of Ministers.
Sukhu’s remarks have come at a time when the Congress government has been facing sustained speculation over a possible reshuffle and expansion of the state cabinet. Though the Chief Minister stopped short of announcing a date or formally confirming Thakur’s induction, his comments have strengthened the possibility of the Kullu legislator getting a ministerial berth.
Thakur’s possible elevation assumes political significance as the Congress leadership seeks to balance regional representation and internal equations within the party. His induction could also strengthen the government’s political presence in the Kullu region.
The proposed expansion is being closely watched within the Congress, particularly against the backdrop of discussions over representation from different regions and sections of the party. Any decision on new inductions is likely to take into account both administrative requirements and the political balance within the ruling party.
For now, the Chief Minister has kept the timing and final composition of the expansion open. However, his latest remarks have given fresh momentum to speculation that the cabinet changes may be announced soon.
