After Govind Gaude’s comments about Shram Shakti Bhavan and tribal welfare projects, the BJP is under pressure. His remarks suggesting that tribal development work cannot happen without corruption are seen as a message to the Chief Minister about problems in the system. Gaude, who is also the Art and Culture Minister, is responsible for the Kala Academy, which has faced criticism after renovation.
While the party is dealing with internal tensions, the health of one minister is also said to be a concern. A cabinet reshuffle seems likely. Assembly Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar may be given a ministerial post, and former CM Digambar Kamat could take over as Speaker. Congress MLAs who joined the BJP and are currently without portfolios may also be accommodated in the reshuffle.
All eyes are now on the BJP state president, who is expected to return from Delhi on Monday and take a decision on Gaude’s remarks against his own party.
