Six-Member Ministry Could Expand to Eight; Possible Dropping of Ministers, Fresh Inductions Under Discussion
Srinagar, Aug 18 : The ruling National Conference is weighing a broader overhaul of the Omar Abdullah-led Council of Ministers, with discussions reportedly focusing not only on fresh inductions but also on portfolio redistribution and possible changes among the existing ministers.
Sources told that, the exercise has gained momentum following Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s indication ahead of Independence Day that a Cabinet reshuffle and expansion would be considered after August 15.
The Omar Abdullah Government, which assumed office on October 16, 2024, currently has six members, including the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister. The Council can have a maximum strength of eight members, leaving scope for two additional inductions.
Sources said the party leadership is holding consultations on possible candidates for ministerial berths. Among the names being discussed are Srinagar MLA Tanvir Sadiq, Sopore MLA Irshad Rasool Kar, Kupwara MLA Mir Saifullah, Pahalgam MLA Altaf Ahmad Wani, Anantnag MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri and Poonch MLA Ijaz Ahmad Jan.
However, sources stressed that the names remain under discussion and no final decision has been taken so far. The final composition is expected to depend on the party leadership’s assessment of political, regional and administrative considerations.
The proposed exercise could also lead to a redistribution of portfolios within the existing ministry. Some ministers may be assigned new departments, while the possibility of one or more ministers being dropped has also not been ruled out, sources said.
The current Council comprises Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, and ministers Sakina Masood Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javed Ahmed Dar and Satish Sharma.
Meanwhile, the National Conference’s alliance partner, the Congress, has so far stayed away from direct participation in the government despite being approached regarding joining the Council of Ministers.
With consultations continuing, the timing and final shape of the Cabinet exercise remain subject to a decision by the National Conference leadership.
