Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Expansion: Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Hints at Sunder Singh Thakur's Induction

In a significant political development, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has indicated that Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur is poised to join the Cabinet. During a public event, Sukhu's remarks have sparked speculation about the long-awaited Cabinet expansion, which has seen intense lobbying for the vacant ministerial position. Thakur's potential induction not only strengthens the Cabinet but also addresses demands for representation from Kullu district. As political attention shifts to the timing of the swearing-in ceremony, it appears that Thakur's elevation is now just a matter of time.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 15:10 IST

Political Developments in Himachal Pradesh

Munish Sood
Mandi

On Thursday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made a significant political announcement regarding the long-anticipated expansion of the Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, indicating that Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur is likely to be appointed as a minister.

While addressing a gathering in Mashobra, where he inaugurated the Block Development Office and laid the groundwork for development projects worth approximately ₹48 crore in the Kasumpti Assembly constituency, Sukhu pointed to Thakur, who was present on stage with Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh, and stated, “He is our soon-to-be minister.”

This statement has sparked renewed political speculation in the state, with many interpreting it as a definitive sign that the Congress leadership has made a decision regarding the vacant Cabinet position.

The ministerial seat has been unoccupied for several months, leading to intense lobbying and speculation within the ruling Congress party. Political insiders had primarily focused on three legislators—Kullu MLA Sunder Singh Thakur, Jawalamukhi MLA Sanjeev Rattan, and Palampur MLA Ashish Butail. Although all three were seen as strong candidates due to their political influence and closeness to party leadership, the Chief Minister’s recent public endorsement seems to have tipped the scales in favor of Thakur.

This marks the second occasion on which Sukhu has publicly supported the Kullu legislator for a Cabinet position. Earlier this year, during the Assembly's Budget Session, the Chief Minister had made a similar statement amidst a heated debate between Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur and Sunder Singh Thakur, asserting that the Kullu MLA would soon be appointed as a minister.

Sukhu's renewed endorsement has bolstered expectations that the long wait for the Cabinet expansion is coming to an end. Currently, the Himachal Cabinet has one vacant position, and the Chief Minister had previously stated that this would be filled after discussions with the Congress high command.

Sunder Singh Thakur, a two-time MLA from Kullu and a former Chief Parliamentary Secretary, is viewed as one of Sukhu’s trusted allies. His appointment would also ensure Cabinet-level representation for Kullu district, a demand that has gained momentum within the party in recent months.

With the Chief Minister's announcement made publicly, the focus has shifted from who will be appointed to when the swearing-in ceremony will occur. Unless unexpected political changes arise, Sukhu’s comments have effectively confirmed that Sunder Singh Thakur’s long-anticipated promotion to the state Cabinet is imminent.