Kondagaon MLA Mohan Markam, who was recently removed from his position as Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee (CPCC) President, is set to take on a new role as a cabinet minister in the Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel government. This announcement comes just four months ahead of the state’s Assembly elections, adding an interesting dimension to the politics in State. The former cabinet minister, Dr Premsai Singh Tekam, has tendered his resignation from the School Education and Tribal Welfare Department. Dr Tekam sent his resignation letter to CM Baghel, who promptly accepted it and forwarded it to Raj Bhavan. Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan acknowledged and accepted Dr Tekam’s resignation. The swearing-in ceremony for Mohan Markam as the new cabinet minister has been scheduled, which will take place at Raj Bhavan on Friday at 11:30 am.

 

The official confirmation was provided by a senior official from the Raj Bhavan Secretariat. Following his resignation, Dr Tekam has returned to his constituency, Pratappur, located in Surajpur district. In a conversation with the media, Dr Tekam expressed that the decision to appoint a cabinet minister rests with the Chief Minister, and he was instructed by the party high command to resign. He further commented that a resignation is not given but taken. Prior to his departure for Janjgir-Champa district, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel addressed the media in the state capital. When questioned about an impending cabinet reshuffle, he advised everyone to be patient and wait for the changes. Regarding the change in CPCC President, Baghel revealed that Deepak Baij, a young leader, has been appointed as the new State Congress President.

 

This decision was made during the national convention of the All India Congress Committee, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for youth leadership. Baghel expressed optimism about positive outcomes in Chhattisgarh following the organizational change, suggesting that it could extend to the government as well. Mohan Markam, aged 55, previously served as the CPCC President from June 28, 2019, to July 12, 2023. He first became an MLA in 2013 and hails from the Makri block of Kondagaon district. Under Markam’s leadership, the Congress party achieved success in five assembly by-elections and witnessed impressive performances in civic bodies elections. His new role as a cabinet minister is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the government ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.