The process of selecting a new minister from the Barak Valley is currently underway, sparking a lot of speculation. The primary candidate to replace former minister Parimal Shuklabaidya was initially Krishnendu Paul, the MLA from Patharkandi.
However, new information has brought more names into the running. MLA Kaushik Rai is also being considered, but the most talked-about candidate recently is Mihir Kanti Shome, the MLA from Udharbond. Sources indicate that a close faction of former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has been pushing for Shome’s appointment as a minister in Dispur.
As a result, the competition for the ministerial position has intensified among Krishnendu Paul, Kaushik Rai, and Mihir Shome. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has already announced plans to expand the cabinet before the 78th Independence Day, indicating a new minister will replace Parimal Shuklabaidya.
There is some concern among Paul’s supporters that he might be sidelined at the last moment. On the other hand, Shome’s supporters are optimistic about receiving good news soon. Meanwhile, Kaushik Rai, the MLA from Lakhipur, is known to be very close to the Chief Minister. Despite being a first-term MLA, Rai’s chances of becoming a minister cannot be dismissed due to his close relationship with the Chief Minister.
Rai’s close associates believe he might ultimately succeed and be sworn in as the new minister from Barak Valley. Meanwhile, Krishnendu Paul’s supporters are hopeful that the Chief Minister will honor his earlier promise made during an election rally in Karimganj to appoint Paul as a minister if BJP’s candidate Kripanath Mallah won. They believe the Chief Minister will keep his promise and give Karimganj a ministerial position after nearly two decades.
A close source to the Chief Minister has indicated that no final decision has been made yet regarding the new minister from Barak Valley. The introduction of Mihir Shome’s name has changed the dynamics significantly, making it possible that the ministerial position previously held by Parimal Shuklabaidya might remain vacant.
The people of Barak Valley are eagerly awaiting Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s final decision on the new minister’s inclusion, with all eyes now on Dispur.
