Tripura CM Manik Saha likely to expand Cabinet today

By | July 3, 2025
Tripura Cabinet Expansion 2025: CM Manik Saha at Raj Bhavan to induct Kishore Barman

Agartala, July 3, 2025 — Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha is expected to induct a new minister into his cabinet today. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at 1:30 PM at the Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan in Agartala.

Sources say Kishore Barman, the BJP MLA from Nalchar, will most likely take the oath. This addition will fill the cabinet’s final vacancy and bring the council of ministers to its full strength of 12.

BJP Aims to Complete Cabinet

Tripura’s constitution allows a maximum of 12 ministers, including the Chief Minister. Currently, the cabinet has 11 members. Dr. Saha’s team has held off on filling the last spot for over a year.

The timing of this expansion appears strategic. It allows the BJP to reward loyalty and manage internal demands. Kishore Barman’s performance and regional influence make him a strong pick. His appointment will also improve representation from the Scheduled Caste community in Sipahijala district.

Coalition Composition: BJP, TMP, and IPFT

The Tripura government is led by the BJP in coalition with the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) and the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT). The current cabinet includes:

  • 8 ministers from BJP (including the CM)
  • 2 from TMP
  • 1 from IPFT

The 2023 state election delivered no clear majority. After weeks of talks, the BJP formed a coalition. TMP joined the government later, helping to bridge the tribal and non-tribal divide in state politics.

Despite different priorities, the alliance has stayed intact. The new induction may help the BJP secure its leadership and prevent friction in the coalition.

Who is Kishore Barman?

Kishore Barman has represented Nalchar since 2018. His popularity in the region and solid work at the grassroots level have earned him respect within the party. He won re-election with ease and has maintained strong voter support.

Party leaders see him as a rising figure. They view his potential appointment as a reward for his commitment and consistency. His inclusion would also expand the cabinet’s social and regional balance.

This move could also motivate other party workers. It sends a message that performance and loyalty are valued.

Ceremony Details and What to Expect

The swearing-in event will be held at the Durbar Hall inside Raj Bhavan. Governor Indra Sena Reddy will administer the oath of office. Senior leaders from the BJP, TMP, and IPFT are expected to attend.

Though the Chief Minister’s Office has not officially confirmed Barman’s name, several sources say he has already reached the Raj Bhavan.

Analysts believe this addition will help stabilize the cabinet ahead of key local elections. It also allows the government to function with a full team before the monsoon session of the Legislative Assembly.

Strategic Importance

This cabinet expansion comes at a critical time. The state faces pressure to accelerate development work, improve job creation, and enhance tribal welfare. A full cabinet will help distribute responsibilities more efficiently.

The move also aligns with the central BJP’s focus on performance. Party leaders have reviewed progress in several northeastern states. Tripura’s cabinet update is part of that broader effort.

The new minister will likely handle one of the portfolios under stress. These could include public health, education, or tribal development—areas needing faster progress.

Reactions from the Opposition

Opposition leaders have criticized the BJP for delaying the appointment. Congress leader Sudip Roy Barman said the government is more focused on internal politics than on public welfare. He highlighted rising unemployment and poor rural healthcare as major issues that remain unresolved.

The BJP, however, defended the timing. Spokespersons say the expansion was well-planned and necessary. They argue that it will improve governance and prepare the state for the next phase of growth.

Conclusion

With the cabinet expansion set for today, Tripura’s political landscape is poised for a shift. Kishore Barman’s likely inclusion adds strength to the BJP and completes the team under CM Manik Saha.

As the state moves into the second half of its term, a full cabinet can help push major reforms and strengthen delivery on key schemes. Whether this change boosts efficiency or sparks new challenges, it will shape the political tone in the months ahead.