Imphal, September 29: Contrary to speculation of a major reshuffle in the Council of Ministers of the SPF Government following the appointment of Gaikhangam as president of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee there is strong indication that only one MLA will be inducted to replace Gaikhangam in the council of Ministers.

According to a reliable Congress party source, a mass Ministry reshuffle with the general elections round the corner is likely to cause upheaval not only in the party organisation but among the Congress legislators who have been hobnobbing for Ministerial berths.

To negate any possible rebellion in the run-up to the Assembly polls proposition of inducting only one MLA after Gaikhangam formally resigns from the Council of Ministers and preserving the status quo of the SPF Ministry is being minutely considered, the source maintained.

After approval from the AICC high command on the proposal of State Congress leaders, who are currently at the national capital, replacing Gaikhangam by Naga legislator is gaining strong momentum to conform with the principle of equal representation.

Refusing to take name on who is leading the race for the lone Ministerail berth, the source reminding of the State Government�s district wise accommodation said there is equal chance of the party�s remaining Naga MLAs - DK Korunthang (Tengnoupal AC), Wungnaoshang Keishing (Phungyar), A Aza (Chingai), Z Mangaibou (Tamei) and RK Theko (Mao) of being favoured.

To seek suggestions from the party high command on smooth induction of a new Minister and to prevent dissension, MPCC president Gaikhangam, Chief Minister O ibobi Singh, Speaker TN Haokip and former MPCC chief Phungzathang Tonsing are currently meeting party leaders in New Delhi, said the source.

On report of TN Haokip being in the fray for a Ministry post, the source cited O Ibobi and Gaikhangam being in favour of TN Haokip holding the same post as members of the CLP had exhibited reluctance to assume the charge.

Nevertheless, there is still possibility of providing a Ministry post to TN Haokip if any of the present Kuki Ministers opt for the post of Speakership, added the source.

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