Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Conducts Comprehensive Performance Review as Cabinet Reshuffle Speculation Grows

Political circles are abuzz with speculation of significant cabinet changes as four ministerial posts remain vacant.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has commenced a comprehensive week-long evaluation of all ministerial departments amid growing rumors of an impending cabinet reshuffle. The assessment, running from December 2 to 9, aims to review each minister's performance over the past two years and establish a governance roadmap for the next three years.

On the initial day of evaluations, Chief Minister Yadav scrutinized the School Education Department, requesting detailed information about educational schemes, infrastructure development, digital learning initiatives, and teacher management systems. The Rural Development, Panchayat, and Transport Departments also underwent similar reviews.

According to sources present during the meetings, the Chief Minister conducted thorough examinations of education program impacts. Officials reported significant progress, including reduced dropout rates and enrollment increases 120% higher than the previous year, with notable transfers from private institutions to government schools.

Rural Development & Panchayat Minister Prahlad Patel highlighted the administration's focus on developing Gram Panchayat facilities, community centers, rural transportation networks, and improving drinking water infrastructure. He emphasized ongoing efforts to restore traditional water conservation structures and claimed that various government initiatives are propelling villages toward self-sufficiency.

Transport and School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh affirmed the government's dedication to enhancing educational resources, recognizing academic excellence, and upgrading transportation infrastructure. He expressed optimism that the Chief Minister's detailed assessment would yield favorable outcomes.

Government representatives maintain that these evaluations will expedite administrative processes at grassroots levels and ensure government benefits reach all intended recipients.

While the administration emphasized improvements, the opposition Congress launched severe criticism against the Chief Minister and his cabinet.

Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee President Jitu Patwari characterized the evaluation exercise as merely a "cosmetic audit," suggesting that the Chief Minister should begin by reviewing his own department first.

Patwari referenced a Union Home Ministry assessment that allegedly ranked the MP Home Department among the country's least effective. He demanded that Dr. Mohan Yadav address the purported failures within the department under his direct supervision.

Patwari further presented numerous allegations, including references to the EOW investigation concerning counterfeit seeds, permit misuse, and alleged collusion with insurance companies. He mentioned damaging observations in the CAG report that allegedly prompted no ministerial action, and claimed that 50 lakh children had disappeared from the educational system. Patwari suggested corruption increased proportionally with budget expansions.

He contradicted government claims about toll plaza removals, asserting all remain operational, and questioned whether the Transport Minister would resign. In his most pointed criticism, Patwari declared, "This administration operates on a 40% commission basis. The leadership functions like Alibaba with ministers serving as the forty thieves."

Patwari challenged the BJP to identify even one MLA whose constituency projects proceed without corrupt practices, and announced that Congress would conduct its own public assessment of each department.

BJP State President Hemant Khandelwal responded forcefully, defending the Chief Minister. "Our administration remains accountable to citizens. That's precisely why the CM is reviewing every department. Had Congress prioritized public welfare, they would still hold power."

Khandelwal added that consecutive electoral victories demonstrate public confidence in the BJP's governance.

Minister Vishvas Sarang also criticized Congress, stating, "Reviews represent standard administrative procedures. Progress requires evaluating past performance and planning future initiatives."

Addressing Patwari's accusations, Sarang remarked, "Congress makes irresponsible statements merely to maintain media presence. If Patwari possesses evidence, he should present it properly."

With four unfilled positions in the 31-member cabinet, political observers anticipate significant changes. Sources indicate several senior MLAs may receive cabinet appointments, while some current ministers could transition to organizational leadership roles. Two women legislators may join the cabinet, and at least three existing ministers might be removed due to performance concerns. A former Congress MLA who defected to the BJP is reportedly under consideration for a ministerial position.

The forthcoming appointment of the next national BJP president is expected to influence the final cabinet composition.

When NDTV asked whether a reshuffle was imminent following department evaluations, CM Mohan Yadav responded carefully, "Our party operates under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Amit Shah, and JP Nadda. A biennial review is standard procedure. We will abide by whatever the party decides. Work must continue, and we remain committed to that responsibility."