The suspense over seven names for the ministerial berths in Raghubar Das Cabinet may unfold very soon as the CM is likely to arrive Ranchi with the final list tomorrow. According to a BJP leader, Das’ visit was to take the nod of senior leaders of the party before he could expand the 12- member Cabinet of the state which stands with just four members, including the CM himself even after one month of government formation.
The party leader hinted that the BJP was now deciding to fill the quota of seven remaining berths with six of BJP MlAs and one MlA from the AJSU party. “After passage of time there is a growing pressure on the ruling coalition from both internally and externally for expansion of Cabinet. The aspirants within the ruling coalition are anxiously waiting for the final list, while the Opposition is creating ruckus. In these conditions we cannot delay the exercise,” said a senior leader requesting anonymity.
Notably, the JMM and the Congress have begun raising the issue calling the delay unconstitutional and dubious on the part of the ruling parties. The Congress has decided to meet the Governor over the issue, while the JVM has alleged that BJP was trying to buy MlAs with huge cash and other offers. The JMM has also called the delay unethical and against the conventions of democracy.
Sources hinted that the name of lohardaga MlA KK Bhagat from AJSU party was almost certain in the second list, while six other names from the BJP may include Saryu Roy, Dr Neera Yadav, Shivshankar Oraon, RK Kishore, Anant Ojha and Raj Paliwar.
The Cabinet expansion is likely to take place on Dec 30, said sources.Meanwhile, the CM met four Union Ministers today to discuss issues related to development of Jharkhand. Das met Venkaiah Naidu, Suresh Prabhu, JP Nadda and Uma Bharti.
In the meeting with Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Uma Bharati the CM sought necessary funds for development schemes in the State. The Union Minister assured Das of all help and showed interest in river projects in the State.
Bharti said that they have planned a development scheme in the State related to riverbed and canals. Several rivers course will also be modified to save important structures and fertile land, she said. The Union Minister also requested the CM to contribute to Clean Ganga project.