All eyes on Uttar Pradesh as Modi cabinet 3.0 takes shape

LUCKNOW: Days after springing a surprise for the BJP in the Lok Sabha election results where the party could secure only 33 out of 80 seats as compared to 62 in 2019, Uttar Pradesh is once again in the spotlight as speculations are rife on the number of MPs from the state who are likely to be inducted in the NDA 3.0 govt led by Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi.

The underwhelming performance of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh emerged as one of the main reasons why it fell short of the majority mark.



A section of political observers believes that the number of Union ministers from the state could come down from the earlier 12, which also included Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the number of MPs has come down by half as compared to 2019.

However, a few observers claim that the 2019 number would be retained as concerted efforts are needed to solve the issues that have cropped up following the BJP’s drubbing in UP.



They also believe that any reduction in the number of MPs might have an impact on caste equations, and further enrage the members of the caste that did not support the BJP candidates in the Lok Sabha elections.

Though there is no confirmation on the exact numbers, names of several MPs have started doing the rounds for ministerial berths in the Modi govt. Top contenders include Lucknow MP and former defence minister Rajnath Singh, Anupriya Patel of Apna Dal (S), and Jayant Chaudhary, president of BJP’s new alliance partner Rashtriya Lok Dal.



According to sources, Pilibhit MP and PWD minister in the Yogi Adityanath govt, Jitin Prasada, is also likely to be inducted in the Modi cabinet.

Sources said that some inclusions in the Modi cabinet could be made keeping caste equations in mind. Names of Pankaj Chaudhary (Maharajganj), SP Singh Baghel (Agra), Sakshi Maharaj (Unnao), Mukesh Rajput (Farrukhabad), Babu Ram Nishad and BL Verma (both Rajya Sabha members) are doing rounds.

Sources said that Pankaj Chaudhary could be inducted keeping Kurmi voters in mind. Shakshi Maharaj, Mukesh Rajput and BL Verma are in the race in view of BJP’s bid to consolidate Lodhi votes. It is likely that only one of the three could get a berth in the NDA government.




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