Kolkata: The proposed Union cabinet reshuffle is likely to see several Bengal BJP heavyweights secure important berths.Ahead of the expansion — expected after Parliament’s monsoon session — the names of several Bengal netas have started doing the rounds. The prominent among them are state president Samik Bhattacharya and Bishnupur MP Saumitra Khan. While Bengal currently has two Union ministers of state in the central govt, Sukanta Majumdar and Santanu Thakur, it lacks full cabinet representation.The results of the 2026 assembly polls have strengthened BJP’s foothold in Bengal, further bolstered by a group of MPs who defected to NCPI and extended their support to the party in office. Sources said this reshuffle is not merely an exercise in governance, but a strategic move to cement BJP’s blueprint for the forthcoming regional and Lok Sabha elections.BJP sources indicated that Bhattacharya, who completed one year as state president this month, is being considered for a key cabinet portfolio, possibly a ministry like education. He will continue to hold the state party chief’s position until a new committee is formed.Majumdar, the MoS for education and DoNER, might be elevated to a full cabinet rank. He was first inducted into the central ministry in 2024 and concurrently managed his duties as the state unit chief for nearly a year afterward. Khan, who previously served as state president of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha and a state BJP vice-president, was appointed the party’s state general secretary six months ago.Having completed 12 years in governance, BJP is looking to infuse new blood into its ranks apart from enhancing regional representation.Earlier on Wednesday, Union home minister Amit Shah held a meeting with BJP president Nitin Nabin and general secretary (organisation) BL Santhosh. Later that night, a follow-up meeting took place at PM Narendra Modi’s residence, where it was decided that the party would first focus on structuring a new national team under Nabin.Bengal BJP sources added that ministers currently handling multiple portfolios will likely be relieved of their additional responsibilities during this massive overhaul. Ultimately, BJP is seeking a comprehensive refresh under Nabin’s leadership, aligning the cabinet with the growing demand for a younger, more dynamic profile.
