Cabinet expansion with an eye on coming polls

Bhopal, Aug 25 (UNI) In the much-awaited cabinet expansion, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today virtually unveiled the poll strategy of the BJP for the next assembly election when he inducted three supporters of Bharatiya Jan Shakti (BJS) President Uma Bharti.

That Mr Chouhan has an eye on the coming elections is clear from the fact that he provided adequate importance to regional and caste equations.

Political pundits believe that taking some steps had become necessary as the presence of the BJS has impacted recent by-elections in the state.

The induction of Ms Bharti's supporters -- Dr Gaurishankar Shejwar, Mr Laxman Singh and Mr Karan Singh Verma -- was seen as an exercise to drive home the point that Mr Chouhan was eager to work along with those regarded as Ms Bharti's supporters.

The message could impact leaders close to Ms Bharti and who can develop interest in Mr Chouhan and the BJP.

After taking oath as a cabinet minister, Dr Shejwar told reporters that he wanted to forget past and felt that the BJS did not pose a challenge for the BJP.

According to political pundits, Dr Shejwar's statement assumed great significance as the newly-inducted minister could also act as an interface between other BJS leaders and the BJP.

The return of Dr Shejwar, who is a Dalit, in the ministry was the most important highlight of today's Cabinet expansion in view of the thumping victory of the BSP in recently-held assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. BSP President Mayawati is having an eye on next assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh.

The induction of Mr Akhand Pratap Singh, who hails from Tikamgarh, as cabinet minister was a part of strategy to corner the sadhvi in her own hometown.

By making Ms Ranjana Baghel -- who represents Badnawar (ST) assembly seat of Dhar district -- a Minister of State, due importance has been given to tribal woman leader.

Ms Baghel hails from Dhar, hometown of leader of opposition Jamuna Devi.

Mr Singh, who hails from Indore division, was once regarded as close confidante of Ms Bharti. He served as senior officer in the 'Panch Ja' Committee during the sadhvi's regime. However, he resigned later.

Mr Chouhan offered scope for further expansion of his cabinet leaving three berths vacant as its maximum strength could be 35 on the stipulation of 15 per cent of the Assembly strength of 231.

UNI