NCP Leader Chhagan Bhujbal Reinstated as Maharashtra Minister
Maharashtra: Veteran Maharashtra politician and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal has been sworn in as a minister in the Maharashtra government. He took the oath at Raj Bhavan on Monday during a cabinet expansion. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar were present at the ceremony. Bhujbal replaces Dhananjay Munde, who resigned from his ministerial post in March 2025 due to health reasons.
Attempt to Garner OBC Support
Chhagan Bhujbal is considered one of the most prominent and influential leaders of the OBC (Other Backward Class) community in Maharashtra. His return to the cabinet is seen as a strategy to reconnect with this significant segment of the population. Previously, he expressed his displeasure publicly after being excluded from the cabinet expansion in December 2024, stating that while CM Fadnavis had proposed his name, he was ultimately not included.
Chhagan Bhujbal's Statement
After taking the oath, Bhujbal, reminiscing about his past experience, said, “I have held responsibilities in various departments, including the Home Ministry. I will diligently discharge whatever responsibility is given to me. As the saying goes, 'All's well that ends well.'”
He also clarified that the selection of cabinet members is the prerogative of the Chief Minister and he respects the decision.
Replacing Dhananjay Munde
Bhujbal succeeds fellow NCP leader Dhananjay Munde. Munde resigned in March 2025 citing health reasons. However, his name had been linked to the murder of a female sarpanch in Beed, following the involvement of his associate, Valmiki Karad. This led to increasing pressure for his resignation.
Shinde and Fadnavis Offer Congratulations
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, commenting on Bhujbal's return, stated, “Bhujbal has served as a minister several times and efficiently managed various departments. His experience will be invaluable to the state government.”
Bhujbal's reinstatement, in the presence of CM Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, signals the continued b relationship between the NCP and BJP.
MLA from Nashik
77-year-old Chhagan Bhujbal is the MLA from the Yeola Assembly constituency in Nashik district. He is one of the few leaders in Maharashtra with decades of administrative experience, having capably served in various departments, including Home Affairs and Food and Supplies.
Bhujbal's Previous Displeasure
The omission of Bhujbal from the December 2024 cabinet expansion became a subject of considerable discussion, both within the party and in the public and political spheres.
