Who could be added to UP cabinet after expansion? CM Yogi meets PM Modi, JP Nada amid speculations

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi today amid speculations of the long overdue cabinet expansion. Newly appointed acting national president Nithin Navin is accompanying him.

The discussions were about the state's development plans as well as the organizational structure of the state government. They reportedly will be paying special attention to maintaining social and regional balance in the cabinet expansions.

Adityanath’s cabinet previously had 54 ministers, which left 6 positions vacant. It is speculated that following the appointment of Pankaj Chaudhary as president many changes will be added to the the party’s organisational structure..

Some state ministers may also see their status increased by being given independent charge.

The state’s representation is expected to increase with the new cabinet, which would take place in February 2016.

Former state president Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary, MLC Dr Mahendra Singh, Rampur MLA Akash Saxena, and Mant MLA Rajesh Chaudhary have all been named among those likely to be added. Saxena may replace Forest and Environment Minister Arun Saxena. Additionally, many may also be removed from the Yogi cabinet.

The leadership change and the cabinet expansion were pending for about 11 months.

Analysts say that the party is now fully prepared for cabinet expansion.

The meeting on Monday is expected to further the preparations. The party’s primary objective is to build a stronger team before the 2027 elections.

There are speculations that Yogi Adityanath will be meeting with BJP National Executive President Nithin Nabin in their first formal exchange. They are likely to discuss the cabinet expansion further; however, the meeting has not been confirmed.