NCP Pushes for Cabinet Berth Amid Maharashtra Political Dynamics

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mentioned that the latest political maneuvers in Maharashtra involve the NCP vying for a cabinet berth in the Modi government. Despite offers from BJP, NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, insists on a full cabinet position rather than a Minister of State with independent charge.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed on Sunday that the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is aspiring for a cabinet berth in Narendra Modi's government, having declined the BJP's offer of a Minister of State (MoS) with independent charge.

Fadnavis said, "We had offered one berth of minister with independent charge to the NCP but it was insistent that Praful Patel's name be finalized. Due to his experience, the NCP believed Patel could not be made MoS with independent charge."

He added that a coalition government must adhere to a specific formula, which cannot be altered for a single party. Ajit Pawar, in a separate statement, emphasized that the NCP is prepared to wait but insists on a cabinet berth in the future, underlining their support for the NDA for national interest.