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Jharkhand
cabinet expansion postponed
The political drama in Jharkhand refuses to
end. First there was trouble over government formation and now
there is difficulty over distribution of portfolios amongst
ministers.
With a maximum of 12 ministries possible, portfolio allocation has
become a source of headache for Chief Minister Arjun Munda.
As a result, the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for today had to
be postponed.
Key to stability
It's the five independent MLAs, who hold the key to the stability
of the new government in Jharkhand.
Aware of their political clout, they have started flexing their
muscles. All of them are ministers in the Munda government, but
now they want lucrative portfolios.
- Sudesh Mahto wants Home and PWD.
- Enos Ekka and Madhu Kodha are fighting for Rural Development.
- Harinarain Rai and Kamlesh Singh want Irrigation.
- Chandraprakash Rai is looking for Mines Department.
"The Cabinet there is small. So the situation
will have to be solved by talks," said BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu.
Complicated situation
The problem gets further complicated as there can be a maximum of
12 ministers in Jharkhand.
With independents getting six, the BJP and the JD (U) have to
split the remaining six amongst themselves.
Not wanting to create more divisions within the party, the BJP is
asking the JD (U) to reduce its demands.
BJP's offer
With the Speaker's post going to the JD (U), the BJP is willing to
give only one ministry to its ally. But this is unacceptable to
the JD (U).
"The BJP has its Chief Minister which is the most powerful
position," said Inder Singh Namdhari, Speaker, Jharkhand Assembly.
The differences ensured that the swearing-in ceremony of all
ministers will now have to wait till after Holi. The delay has
robbed the BJP of a chance to celebrate the festival like a
victory day.
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