Guwahati, Dec 5: In a strategic move ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is set to expand his cabinet by including four new ministers and dropping one on December 7.
The reshuffle, described as “minor” by the Chief Minister, involves both inclusions and exclusions, aimed at strengthening the BJP’s position in the state.
The four leaders will join the Assam cabinet are Prasanta Phukan, Krishnendu Paul, Kaushik Rai and Rupesh Goala.
Prasanta Phukan has been epresenting Dibrugarh since 2006, is a senior BJP leader and a seasoned legislator. Kaushik Rai is an MLA from Lakhipur, known for his consistent work in the constituency. Krishnendu Paul who represents Patharkandi since 2016, recognized for his grassroots leadership.
Rupesh Goala is a new face who elected to the assembly from doomdooma constituency in 2021 elections.
Minister of Tea Tribe Welfare Sanjay Kishan has tendered his resignation. His removal marks one of the notable changes in the reshuffle.
The decision was finalized after Chief Minister Sarma’s discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J.P. Nadda. Both leaders were in Maharashtra, where Sarma traveled to finalize the reshuffle details.
The reshuffle will take place at noon on December 7, with the Chief Minister ensuring alignment of the state cabinet with the party’s strategic goals for the 2026 elections.
By bringing in fresh faces and seasoned leaders, the reshuffle aims to address regional and community dynamics, bolstering the BJP’s prospects.
The resignation of Sanjay Kishan highlights potential shifts in focus towards new leaders for the welfare of the community.
This reshuffle signals a calculated move to maintain BJP’s dominance in Assam while preparing for the upcoming electoral challenges.
