It was a rough start for the BJP government on Tuesday as long-time ally Shiv Sena frowned on the choice of Ministry for its lone representative in the Cabinet, Anant Geete.
Mr. Geete, who has been given charge of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, refused to take charge.
While Mr. Geete could not be reached for his comment, sources said the Sena was expecting more representation in the Cabinet as well as among Ministers of State. Mr. Geete, however, attended a Cabinet meeting in the evening.
“We feel the Heavy Industries portfolio is not a significant one. The Telugu Desam Party has been given Civil Aviation even though the Shiv Sena has more seats,” said a senior leader.
Sena MP Vinayak Raut said: “We were expecting at least two Cabinet berths and two Minister of State slots.”
