In a decisive turn of events, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced Mohan Yadav as the new Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, replacing the outgoing Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The appointment came after the BJP secured a resounding mandate in the state, winning 163 seats, a significant triumph over the Congress, which trailed with 66 seats.
Expressing his confidence in Yadav, Chouhan, in a heartfelt Hindi post on social media, referred to his successor as a “hardworking friend” and expressed optimism that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yadav would “create new records in the field of public welfare.” Chouhan’s endorsement highlighted the party’s trust in Yadav’s capabilities.
Mohan Yadav, previously a cabinet minister in the Madhya Pradesh government under Chouhan’s leadership, conveyed gratitude for the support and love from the state and central leadership. In his acknowledgment, he humbly stated, “With your love and support, I will try to fulfill my responsibilities.” Alongside Yadav, two deputies, Jagdisgh Devda and Rajesh Shukla, were also announced.
The BJP’s victory marked the end of nearly two decades of incumbency in the state, with Chouhan’s welfare schemes, particularly the ‘Ladli Behna’ initiative, playing a pivotal role in securing support, especially among women voters.
This leadership transition comes after the BJP appointed central observers, including Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, to decide the new Chief Minister. This move sparked speculation that the party might introduce a fresh face to lead the state.
Madhya Pradesh has witnessed political twists and turns over the years, with Chouhan taking the oath as Chief Minister in 2005 after central observers were last appointed. The state’s political landscape experienced a significant shift in 2020 when Jyotiraditya Scindia and 22 loyalist MLAs switched to the BJP, leading to the fall of the Congress government.
As Mohan Yadav steps into the role of Chief Minister, the BJP aims to continue its governance, emphasizing public welfare and development, aligning with the party’s broader vision under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.