Puducherry Power Struggle: AINRC and BJP Clash Over Cabinet Portfolio Distribution
The ruling NDA coalition in Puducherry faces a localized deadlock as Chief Minister N. Rangasamy and the BJP disagree on ministerial assignments. The dispute stems from a shift in electoral math that has emboldened the AINRC to challenge previous power-sharing agreements.
Electoral Math Triggers Coalition Friction
A significant rift has emerged within Puducherry's ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) regarding the allocation of cabinet responsibilities. While the government officially formed following the April assembly elections, the distribution of specific departments remains unresolved. The disagreement centers on a shift in legislative strength; AINRC leaders argue that the 2021 power-sharing formula is now obsolete because their party increased its presence to 12 seats, while the BJP saw its tally drop to four in the 30-member Assembly.
The Portfolio Deadlock
Chief Minister and AINRC founder N. Rangasamy submitted a list of portfolio assignments to Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan on July 20. However, the BJP has formally rejected this proposal. BJP President V. P. Ramalingam met with the Chief Minister on Tuesday to convey that the party expects a strict adherence to previous agreements regarding cabinet berths and portfolios. Key points of contention include:
- Control over the Home department, which the Chief Minister intends to retain.
- The concentration of power, with the BJP opposing a system where the Chief Minister holds Home, Finance, Revenue, Health, Town and Country Planning, Excise, and Higher Education.
- The BJP's demand for "nothing more or nothing less" than the shares allocated during the previous tenure.
Administrative Delays and Political Fallout
The timeline of government formation has been staggered. Following the May 4 results, the Chief Minister and two ministers were sworn in on May 13, followed by three additional ministers on June 17. Despite these appointments, the lack of defined portfolios has left the administration in a state of flux. To resolve the impasse before the upcoming budget session, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to intervene and speak with Rangasamy directly.
The opposition has been quick to criticize the paralysis. DMK leader A. M. H. Nazeem stated on Wednesday that portfolio allocation is the exclusive prerogative of the Chief Minister and suggested that the entire cabinet should resign if they cannot reach a resolution. Nazeem noted that the delay is actively hampering welfare initiatives and development across the Union Territory.
Source: The Hindu — Home
