New Delhi, Dec 03: Opposition members in Rajya Sabha today asked why Trinamool Congress member Mamata Banerjee was without a portfolio after her re-induction into the Union Cabinet. "Is it because she is a women that she has not been given a porfolio," asked Congress member Mabel Rebllo, as leader of the House. Jaswant Singh introduced Banerjee in the House as a new minister.

Congress member Suresh Pachauri also raised the question even as Banerjee chose not to react.

When Singh introduced Gingee Ramachandran, Pachauri described the MDMK member as a "tainted minister". Bureau Report