By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: No credible indications of Mohan Majhi being replaced as Chief Minister of Odisha as of on Today. The speculation appears to stem from social media frustration, opposition criticism, and some internal grumbling over governance delivery, but it lacks backing from BJP central leadership or mainstream political developments.
Majhi continues as the 15th Chief Minister (sworn in June 12, 2024). He remains the face of the first BJP government in Odisha and is actively involved in key decisions, including the recent budget, Delhi visits, and state vision documents ( like Odisha@2036).
He met PM Narendra Modi and BJP President Nitin Nabin in Delhi in late May 2026. Discussions focused on governance progress, infrastructure, and the upcoming second anniversary of the government (June 12, 2026). No reports suggest any discussion on leadership change.
Why the Rumors Are Circulating
Performance dissatisfaction: After nearly two years, there is public and internal criticism regarding slow implementation, coordination issues, multiple portfolios held by few ministers, and visible gaps in delivery on promises. Some MLAs, party workers, and citizens on social media have voiced calls for a “stronger” or more experienced CM.1649b3
Sensational media: A few YouTube videos and social media posts (like, comments wishing for replacement) amplify this, often linking it to cabinet expansion talks. These seem more like venting than insider information.
Comparison with predecessors: Naveen Patnaik’s long tenure set high expectations for stability and administrative smoothness. Majhi, a tribal leader from Keonjhar with a grassroots background, is sometimes contrasted unfavorably by critics on experience.
Broader BJP context: In other states, leadership reviews happen mid-term, fueling speculation here too. However, no signals from Delhi point to Majhi’s ouster.
BJP typically avoids frequent CM changes in new governments, especially one that ended 24 years of BJD rule. Majhi was a deliberate central choice (tribal face, humble background) and has been projecting stability.
Focus is squarely on cabinet expansion/reshuffle (6 vacant slots) to address underperformance, regional imbalances, and inject fresh energy ahead of the second anniversary and future polls.
Any major leadership shift would require clear central approval and would likely create more internal disruption than benefit at this stage.
Possible Scenarios:
No change, but accountability: Majhi may use the reshuffle to drop/reallocate underperforming ministers, signaling course correction without touching the top post.
Strengthening Majhi: Delhi meetings could reinforce his position with more support for governance reforms.
Longer-term review: Closer to 2029 elections, performance will be scrutinized more intensely, but that’s years away.
Bottom line: The “CM may be changed” talk is mostly rumor and dissatisfaction-driven noise rather than a developing political reality. The real action expected soon is in the cabinet — expansion and possible reshuffle to bolster the government. Majhi’s position appears secure for now, with the emphasis on team adjustments over leadership overhaul.
