A major political churn is underway in Gujarat as Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel prepares to expand his cabinet, prompting 16 of 17 ministers to resign ahead of the new lineup’s induction.

Political observers believe the reshuffle goes beyond mere administrative changes, linking it instead to the BJP’s preparation for upcoming civic and assembly elections.

Sources said, “Ever since C.R. Patil became the state BJP president, there have been murmurs about a reshuffle. With elections nearing, the party seems eager to set the stage early.”

The leadership change  with Panchal replacing Patil as state president is being viewed as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party’s organisational base.

The reshuffle also follows the BJP’s recent bypoll defeat to AAP candidate Gopal Italia, which analysts suggest has exposed potential weaknesses in the party’s Saurashtra stronghold.