Chhattisgarh Cabinet Expands with Induction of 3 First-Time MLAs as Ministers

Quick Summary:

• Three BJP MLAs-Rajesh Agrawal, Guru Khushwant Saheb, and Gajendra Yadav-where inducted into Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s Cabinet in Chhattisgarh on August 20, 2025.
• Governor Ramen Deka administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new Ministers at a ceremony held in Raj Bhavan, Raipur.
• The expanded Cabinet now has 14 members-the largest in Chhattisgarh’s history since its formation in 2000.
• Traditionally,Chhattisgarh maintained a 13-member Cabinet due to constitutional provisions limiting size to no more than 15% of assembly strength (90 members).
• This expansion adopts the “Haryana model,” allowing a maximum of 14 Ministers for a State with a 90-member Assembly.
• Portfolios for the newly-inducted Ministers are yet to be announced.
• The BJP’s recent victory in the State elections (2023) ousted Congress; BJP won 54 seats compared to Congress’ 35 and one seat by Gondwana Gantantra Party.
• Caste and regional balance were considered: Mr. Yadav is from OBC community, Mr. Saheb from Scheduled Caste, and Mr. Agrawal represents general category.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

This Cabinet expansion marks a significant shift in governance strategy for Chhattisgarh under CM Vishnu Deo Sai’s administration.By adopting the “Haryana model,” it leverages constitutional provisions that permit increasing ministerial portrayal proportionate to assembly strength. Strategically balancing caste demographics with new appointments appears aimed at consolidating political inclusivity following BJP’s decisive electoral win over Congress.

The move could potentially strengthen administrative outreach across diverse communities given representation from OBCs (Mr. Yadav), Scheduled Castes (Mr. saheb), and general categories (Mr. Agrawal). Expanding ministerial roles further aligns with national trends observed among States striving for broader governance participation while adhering strictly within legal limits.

Only time will reveal how effectively this expanded structure manages portfolio allocation amid heightened expectations linked both regionally and politically post-election.

Read More: The Hindu