SHILLONG, Feb 9: As the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) 2.0 government approaches the milestone of two and a half years in power, murmurs have begun regarding a possible reshuffle in the Cabinet, particularly concerning the two BJP MLAs.
Currently, BJP MLA from Pynthorumkhrah, AL Hek is serving as a cabinet minister in the Conrad Sangma government. The other BJP legislator, Sanbor Shullai remains optimistic about his turn in the cabinet, as per an internal understanding during the formation of the government in 2023 that the exchange will take place after the halfway mark is reached.
Responding to queries on whether discussions have begun within the Meghalaya BJP regarding the reshuffle, a party official said there has been no deliberation or any directive from the central leadership regarding any change in the cabinet.
What is confirmed is that an internal arrangement between Hek and Shullai was made under the previous leadership of the party in Meghalaya. While the specifics of this agreement remain within the domain of the two leaders, top BJP sources have affirmed that an understanding exists between them for sharing the cabinet berth for two and a half years each but it was done at the state level of the party and the central leadership had not given their blessings to any such agreement between the two legislators.
Sources revealed that during the formation of the MDA 2.0 government in 2023, BJP national president JP Nadda had contacted the then-party leadership in Meghalaya, instructing that Hek be sworn in as a minister. However, no mention was made regarding the duration of his tenure in office.
With the government nearing the halfway mark of its tenure, questions are being raised about the status of the internal agreement. Party insiders believe that incumbent BJP state president, Rikman Momin, holds the key to providing clarity about the situation and the agreement.
It has also been confirmed that both Hek and Shullai are signatories to the said agreement, which was made internally without the approval of the central leadership. Notably, even BJP’s former Meghalaya in charge, M Chuba Ao, had reportedly refused to sign the agreement.
As the political development unfolds in the coming days and months, it remains to be seen whether the BJP will proceed with a reshuffle in the cabinet or if Hek will continue in his current role till the end of his five-year tenure.
