Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s recent visit to New Delhi has created a stir in both administrative and political circles of the state. His 35-minute meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, though officially centered on development discussions, is being closely linked with the much-anticipated cabinet expansion in Odisha and internal strategic reshuffles within the BJP.
Upon returning to Bhubaneswar on Sunday, CM Majhi clarified that the primary reason for his Delhi visit was to offer condolences on the demise of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s father. However, the visit also provided him an opportunity to engage in important political and governance dialogues at the national level.
Speaking to the media, Majhi revealed that the meeting with PM Modi was highly productive and revolved around key development initiatives for Odisha. The two leaders reportedly discussed a forward-looking roadmap aimed at achieving a “Prosperous Odisha by 2036” and aligning with the broader national goal of a “Developed India by 2047.” The CM emphasized that the dialogue focused on expediting ongoing projects and identifying future priorities in sectors such as infrastructure, health, and education.
During his trip, Majhi also called on President Droupadi Murmu, presenting her with the ‘Odisha Vision-2036’ document, which outlines the state government’s long-term developmental aspirations.
Political watchers, however, believe that the meeting’s significance goes far beyond development. With six ministerial berths still lying vacant even after a year of the BJP-led government taking charge in Odisha, the timing of the Delhi visit suggests that key political decisions may be on the horizon. The recent appointment of Manmohan Samal as the state BJP president is expected to add further momentum to the reshuffle process.
Majhi had formed his initial cabinet with 14 ministers soon after taking oath on June 12 last year. Although expansion was expected within weeks, it has remained pending, stirring discontent within party ranks. Now, with cabinet slots still open and various posts in government boards and corporations awaiting appointments, his consultation with top national BJP leaders—including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and organizational general secretary BL Santhosh—is being interpreted as groundwork for imminent decisions.
As Odisha prepares for crucial panchayat and municipal elections, the Delhi visit appears to be part of a broader strategy—to not only strengthen governance but also solidify BJP’s political machinery in the state. All eyes are now on the Chief Minister’s next move as discussions from Delhi are expected to soon reflect in BJD-dominated regions where BJP seeks deeper grassroots reach.
