Mudassir Kuloo
Srinagar, October 26: All eyes are on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s proposed cabinet expansion on Tuesday, with legislators of the ruling National Conference (NC) and its allies waiting anxiously to know who will make it to the Council of Ministers.
The expansion will mark the first reshuffle and induction of new ministers since Omar Abdullah took over as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir following the formation of the elected government in the Union Territory in October 2024.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is scheduled to administer the oath of office to the newly inducted ministers on Tuesday, paving the way for the expansion of the council of ministers.
With the swearing-in ceremony approaching, speculation is mounting over the names of legislators likely to be inducted, while uncertainty continues among several aspirants who have been hoping for a place in the government.
Sources said that two existing ministers are likely to be dropped as part of the exercise, while the strength of the Omar Abdullah-led cabinet could reach nine ministers following the induction of new faces.
However, there has been no official confirmation regarding the names of the ministers who may be dropped or those likely to be inducted.
Seniority, administrative experience and the ability to handle key departments are understood to be among the major considerations in the selection of ministers. The Chief Minister is expected to weigh the experience of senior legislators while also keeping the political and regional balance in mind.
Omar Abdullah has already made it clear that legislators should refrain from lobbying for ministerial positions, indicating that the decision has been taken after considering various factors.
The Chief Minister’s message has added to the anticipation among party legislators, many of whom are closely watching developments ahead of Tuesday’s ceremony.
The cabinet expansion is also being viewed as an important political exercise for the ruling party, as the distribution of ministerial responsibilities could have implications for governance, regional representation and internal party dynamics.
While the induction of new ministers is expected to provide an opportunity to some legislators to join the government, it may also leave several aspirants disappointed.
Political circles are abuzz with speculation that some leaders could express dissent if they fail to find a place in the expanded cabinet. However, it remains to be seen whether such disappointment translates into any open disagreement within the party.
The expansion comes at a time when the government is expected to address a range of administrative and public concerns across Jammu and Kashmir. The selection of ministers and the allocation of portfolios will therefore be closely watched by political observers.
