As JD(U) joins NDA, expansion of Modi’s cabinet next on cards?

Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 19

Now that the JD (U) has formally joined the BJP-led NDA, an expansion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s council of ministers appears next on the cards.

Sources say modalities of making suitable space for Nitish Kumar-led party are “on the verge of completion”.

Accommodating the JD (U) should not be a problem as many ministers in the BJP-led government at the Centre currently hold a dual charge.

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If the current formula based on the strength of the allies is adopted then the JD (U) could land a Cabinet position. The JD (U) has two MPs in the Lok Sabha but in the Rajya Sabha it has 10, including senior leader Sharad Yadav, who has charted a different course after Nitish’s recent decision.

However, given Kumar’s importance in Bihar and his expected contribution in building positive perceptions for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his party may get a better deal.         

The JD (U) passed a resolution to join the NDA during the party’s national executive meeting chaired by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar.