With the BJP falling short of the majority figure to form the government on its own, the TDP and JDU got an opportunity to bargain hard and get more ministerial berths in the Modi Cabinet.
Both Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar have significant experience of the coalition era and have strong negotiating skills and are expected to be given key ministries to strategically leverage their support. Here’s what to expect.
Nitish Kumar will bargain for 5 ministerial posts and central funds
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may demand at least 5 ministerial posts, central funds, early assembly elections and special status for Bihar.
People aware of the matter told Hindustan Times that earlier the JD(U) was promised at least three Cabinet posts and one minister of state (MoS), but now the party is in a better bargaining position.
“We are expecting to get at least four Cabinet posts. One more minister of state post may be asked for,” a JD(U) leader said.
He further said the party was keen on departments like railways, rural development and water resources as “these departments will help the JD(U) to accelerate development in the state.”
Chandrababu Naidu to negotiate for preferential status for Andhra Pradesh
Though the TDP has been tight-lipped about the talks, an NDTV report quoted TDP sources as saying the party may seek key ministries at the Centre and preferential status for Andhra Pradesh.
In fact, in 2016, Naidu had parted ways with the BJP over the demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh.
Chirag Paswan assured of a place in the cabinet
The Chirag Paswan-led Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or LJP-RV, which was assured of a berth in the Union Cabinet, was also expected to get a minister of state berth.
“We are confident of getting a post. Becoming a minister of state will be a huge bonus,” an LJP-RV functionary said on condition of anonymity, Hindustan Times reported.
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Published: June 05, 2024, 09:12 PM IST
