news details |
|
|
| Cabinet expansion, reshuffle likely | | | EARLY TIMES REPORT
Jammu, Feb 6: The National Conference and Congress legislators have reached a consensus on filling the vacant ministerial berths in the state cabinet, a local news agency quoting `informed' sources said today.
According to the sources, hectic activity was going on in New Delhi with politicians lobbying for ministerial berths. The cabinet has presently 22 ministers. At least three berths are vacant. This includes the berth of former R&B minister, GM Saroori who was forced to quit last year.
In addition to filling of berths, the Chief Minister is likely to change portfolios of some of the ministers. The Chief Minister and Congress leaders interacted with Congress Chief, Sonia Gandhi and, according to sources, the parties have reached a consensus.
Sources said that the Chief Minister had received the nod from Sonia Gandhi and the names of the legislators to be included in the cabinet had been finalized. Care has been taken to ensure inclusion of persons from unrepresented areas. Kupwara and Doda may get representation in the cabinet.
Congress MLA, Abdul Majid Wani from Doda, Choudhary Ramzan and Mir Saif-ullah from Kupwara may be considered. Ramzan, it is believed, has the backing of NC patron, Dr Farooq Abdullah. Saif-ullah is banking on Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah's support. Who makes it to the cabinet remains to be seen.
Kashmiri Pandits who feel unrepresented may also get a berth. Ashok Bhan is the most appropriate choice, sources believe. He has backing of both factions of state Congress. Bhan's proximity with some of the separatists may also help him get a berth in the cabinet. New Delhi, it is believed, wants him to help in the dialogue process. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
