Panaji: Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday said that the state cabinet would be expanded on Sunday with the induction of seven more ministers.
The swearing-in ceremony would be held at Raj Bhavan, he said but refused to divulge the names. "I will not disclose anything at this moment. I have decided the names but I need to consult my colleagues," Parrikar told reporters here.
He also added that there were no differences within the ruling alliance over the expansion.
Five ministers took oath of office alongwith Parrikar on March 9. However, Forest, Environment and Tourism Minister Matanhy Saldanha died subsequently. The ruling alliance comprises BJP, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and two independents. MGP has got one berth already, and sources said that another MGP legislator, Dipak Dhavalikar, would be inducted now.
The first meeting of the expanded cabinet will take place on Wednesday, Parrikar said.
PTI