Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday indicated that a cabinet expansion could be on the horizon, while reviewing administrative and development initiatives during the ongoing Su-Shasan Tihar programme in Bilaspur. Responding to questions regarding the long-discussed cabinet expansion, the Chief Minister remarked, “Watch what happens next,” a statement that has triggered renewed political speculation in the state.

The Chief Minister visited Bilaspur to assess governance initiatives, inspect development projects, and interact with district officials. During the visit, he also inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several public development works.

Brief Review Meeting

Although a detailed review session had been scheduled, the Chief Minister's meeting with divisional officials lasted only around ten minutes due to his commitment to attend another programme in Raipur.

During the review, he directed officials from Bilaspur, Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi, Mungeli, Sakti, and Sarangarh-Bilaigarh districts to ensure speedy disposal of revenue-related matters. He emphasised that cases involving mutation, land partition, demarcation, and other land records should not remain pending for years.

According to officials, the Chief Minister instructed departments to regularly monitor pending files and ensure that citizens do not face unnecessary delays in obtaining administrative services.

Focus on Education City

One of the key highlights of the visit was the inspection of the upcoming Education City project at Madhuban in Dayalband. The project is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹120 crore and is expected to become a major educational hub in the region.

District authorities informed the Chief Minister that approximately 26 percent of the construction work has already been completed. Spread across 13 acres, the project will include a 500-seat Nalanda campus, a digital library, hostel facilities, coaching centres, skill development infrastructure, and modern academic resources.

Officials said the integrated campus aims to provide coaching, training, and study facilities for students preparing for competitive examinations under one roof.

Administrative Priorities

Apart from revenue administration, the Chief Minister reviewed preparations for the upcoming kharif season. He directed officials to ensure adequate availability of fertilisers and seeds for farmers across the region.

The administration was also asked to strengthen preparedness for monsoon-related challenges, including drinking water supply, healthcare services, and emergency response arrangements.

Political Remarks

During interactions with the media, Sai criticised the opposition Congress over recent protests and political developments. Referring to allegations raised by opposition leaders, he stated that the ruling government remains focused on governance and development.

On issues related to examination irregularities, the Chief Minister reiterated that any proven wrongdoing would be dealt with strictly. He said investigations are conducted whenever complaints arise and that action is taken against those found guilty.

By-Election Results

The Chief Minister also welcomed the outcome of recent urban local body by-elections. He said the Bharatiya Janata Party had secured victories in three Nagar Panchayat chairperson elections and credited party workers and public representatives for the results.

At the same time, he acknowledged that opposition candidates had also won in some municipal wards, describing the outcome as part of the democratic process.