Big discussions are going on about the upcoming cabinet expansion in Uttar Pradesh. There are strong chances that RLD (Rashtriya Lok Dal) might get one more minister post in CM Yogi Adityanath’s cabinet.
Currently, RLD has 9 MLAs in UP, and the party is asking for one more minister seat. It is expected that the cabinet expansion might happen soon after the new BJP state president takes charge.
🗳️ Who Could Become Minister from RLD?
As per reports, two names from RLD are being discussed:
- Ashraf Ali Khan – MLA from Thana Bhawan, Shamli
- Rajpal Balyan – MLA from Budhana, Muzaffarnagar
A senior RLD leader said that as per the agreement with BJP, RLD should get:
- 2 Ministers in UP
- 1 MLC (Member of Legislative Council)
- 1 Minister of State at the Centre
- 2 MPs
Right now, Anil Kumar is a Cabinet Minister and Yogesh Dixit is an MLC from RLD in UP. The leader said there is no pressure on BJP, but they trust that RLD will get what it deserves.
🧑💼 Who is Ashraf Ali Khan?
- MLA from Thana Bhawan, Shamli
- Elected in 2022 as SP-RLD alliance candidate
- Known as a local strong leader
- Close to RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary
- Stayed loyal to the party even after the RLD-BJP alliance in 2024
🧑🌾 Who is Rajpal Balyan?
- MLA from Budhana, Muzaffarnagar
- Also won in 2022 on SP-RLD alliance ticket
- Actively works for sugarcane farmers and social issues
- Currently the leader of RLD MLAs in UP Assembly
This expansion could give better representation to RLD in the government and also help BJP strengthen its alliance politics ahead of future elections.