Is Harsh Sanghavi a Frontrunner for Gujarat Deputy CM?

Surat | Gujarat — Anticipation is soaring across Gujarat ahead of Friday’s cabinet expansion, but nowhere is the excitement more palpable than in the diamond city of Surat. As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prepares to execute its ‘no-repeat’ formula, reminiscent of its 2021 cabinet reshuffle, the potential appointment of a Deputy Chief Minister has seized political attention.

All 16 Gujarat ministers, with the exception of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, formally submitted their resignations to the Governor on Tuesday evening. Among these, the resignation of Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi is arguably the most closely watched.

A powerful political buzz suggests that Sanghavi, who has cemented his position as the BJP’s most influential youth leader and the minister overseeing crucial portfolios like law and order, youth development, and sports, is the top contender for the role of Deputy Chief Minister. This senior role would likely come with the independent charge of Home Affairs, Youth Development, and Sports.

Sanghavi’s political journey is noteworthy. Hailing from a modest background in Surat, he rose through the ranks as a dedicated grassroots worker for the BJP. Despite studying only up to the 8th grade, his undeniable acumen and political stewardship propelled him to the forefront, making him a favorite of both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

According to sources, the new cabinet will hold its inaugural meeting immediately after the swearing-in ceremony, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. This iteration of the Gujarat government is expected to welcome ministers who have joined from the Congress party, as well as those who have demonstrated exceptional performance in the state’s vital cooperative sector.

The new cabinet is slated to comprise approximately 23 ministers, with the BJP meticulously aiming for a balanced representation of experience, youth, and women legislators. The high command’s strategy is focused on ensuring equitable representation across diverse communities and regions.

With the state on the verge of welcoming its new and expanded cabinet on Friday, political scrutiny is singularly focused on Harsh Sanghavi’s expected elevation.