Cabinet revamp on cards as BJP resets Gujarat strategy

Ahmedabad: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Gujarat is set for a major cabinet reshuffle, signalling a broader strategic shift ahead of local polls. The move follows a high-level meeting in New Delhi involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and newly appointed state BJP president Jagdish Vishwakarma.

Sources said the reshuffle could be announced within days, possibly before Diwali, as part of efforts to inject new energy, reward performance and strengthen regional and social representation before the 2027 Assembly elections.

Vishwakarma, an OBC leader from Ahmedabad, recently replaced C.R. Paatil, now in the Union Cabinet. His elevation highlights the BJP’s intent to widen its outreach while maintaining organisational discipline.

The new team is expected to reflect caste and regional balance — with representation from Patidar, OBC, tribal and women leaders across Saurashtra, South and North Gujarat — and introduce younger faces to refresh the leadership.

The upcoming visit of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has added weight to the developments, suggesting coordination between the party and its ideological base.

Political circles are abuzz with speculation following Patel’s recent Delhi meetings. While the AAP has hinted at internal unease, BJP leaders insist the reshuffle is a planned governance exercise.

For Gujarat, this overhaul marks an effort to blend continuity with change — rejuvenating the leadership and consolidating the BJP’s hold on its strongest political bastion ahead of 2027.