The NCP, part of the NDA alliance, expressed disappointment over being offered a Minister of State with independent charge position in the new Modi government, which was perceived as a 'demotion' by party leader Praful Patel. In response, the party has informed the BJP leadership and have been assured to wait for a few days while they take remedial measures. However, NCP chief Ajit Pawar emphasised that they still desire a cabinet ministry and will attend the swearing-in ceremony today.
Modi Cabinet: NCP's Disappointment, Assurance from BJP
The National Congress Party (NCP), an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), has expressed disappointment over being offered a Minister of State with independent charge position in the new Modi government. The party leadership perceived this as a "demotion" and has raised concerns with the BJP.
Background
The NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, has been part of the NDA since 2014. In the previous Modi government, NCP's Praful Patel served as Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. However, in the newly formed cabinet, Patel was offered the position of Minister of State with independent charge of the Ministry of Tourism.
NCP's Response
NCP leader Praful Patel expressed his disappointment with the offer, stating that it was a "demotion" from his previous cabinet position. The party has informed the BJP leadership of their concerns and has been assured to wait for a few days while the BJP takes remedial measures.
NCP chief Ajit Pawar emphasized that the party still desires a cabinet ministry and will attend the swearing-in ceremony today. However, he warned that the party may review its position in the future if their concerns are not addressed.
BJP's Response
The BJP has assured the NCP that they will take their concerns into consideration. Sources within the party indicate that they are working on a possible solution that would satisfy both the NCP and the BJP.
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