TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 21, 2025: Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led government in Chhattisgarh after the cabinet was expanded on Wednesday, questioning the legality of the move and alleging that senior leaders within the party have been sidelined.
Baghel, reacting to the induction of three new ministers—one each from Surguja, Durg, and Raipur districts—said the BJP government must clarify when and how it obtained formal permission from the Centre to increase the size of the cabinet to 14 ministers. “The rule is that only 15 percent of the total number of assembly members can be appointed as ministers. During our government, we had written to the Prime Minister seeking an increase, considering Chhattisgarh’s vast geography and workload, but permission was denied. If BJP has now gone ahead without approval, then this is unconstitutional,” Baghel stated.
He demanded to know whether the Union Government had indeed allowed the increase, and if so, whether a gazette notification was issued. “If permission has been given, then it is acceptable, but if not, it is against tradition and unconstitutional,” he said.
“Senior BJP Leaders Sidelined”
Baghel also claimed that the expansion revealed growing discontent within the ruling party. “Senior leaders like Ajay Chandrakar, Rajesh Moonat, Dharamlal Kaushik, Amar Agarwal, Dharamjit Singh, Vikram Usendi, and Lata Usendi—all very capable—were overlooked. They were made to stand in line while new faces were elevated. This shows there is resentment among the senior leaders,” he alleged.
He further added that the political future of several BJP stalwarts appeared uncertain. “Brijmohan Agarwal was removed from the Assembly and sent to the Lok Sabha. In a way, this is political exile. It is clear that the government of Chhattisgarh is not being run from Raipur but from Delhi. Two people in Delhi are taking decisions, while local leaders are ignored,” Baghel remarked.
Criticism of Proposed Bills in Parliament
The former Chief Minister also criticized the three bills recently tabled in the Lok Sabha concerning the removal of Prime Ministers, Chief Ministers, and Ministers facing serious criminal charges. Baghel said the provisions in the bills could be misused to target the opposition.
“After the passing of this law, every minister—whether at the Centre or in the states—will come under its net. If such charges are applied against a political opponent, bail will not be available from the lower court. If it takes three months to secure bail, that person will automatically be out of the cabinet. This is nothing but a tool to weaken and suppress the opposition,” he warned.
Congratulates New Ministers, But Flags “Unconstitutional” Move
Even as he strongly criticized the process, Baghel extended his congratulations and best wishes to the three newly inducted ministers. However, he reiterated his charge that the BJP government’s decision to expand the cabinet without clarity on approval “raises questions on constitutional propriety” and shows disregard for senior leadership within its own ranks.
