Modi Cabinet reshuffle: Why is Gadkari relucatant to become Railway Minister

Nitin Gadkari is apparently reluctant to take up the responsibility of the Railways. He feels that there is too little time remaining to undertake a major change in the Railways.

The party leadership wanted him to take up the responsibility and handle the Railway portfolio. He however appeared to be reluctant to take up the mantle immediately. With hardly two years left for the elections, he felt that he may not be able to effect any rapid change in such a short span of time.

The decision to change the Railway Minister came after Suresh Prabhu offered to quit. He was however told to wait by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A change in the portfolio is likely. Sources however say that it is not clear if the leadership has taken into view the opinion of Gadkari. Talks are still on this regard, the source also added. In another development, Uma Bharti is unlikely to be dropped as the Water Resources minister.

While her portfolio is likely to be changed, she may still remain in the ministry. Hectic discussions are underway between Arun Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh ahead of the crucial Modi Cabinet reshuffle to be held on Sunday. There are various aspects that have been taken into consideration. Regional, electoral, performance and attendance are some of the aspects taken into consideration ahead of the Cabinet reshuffle.