As the PDP-BJP coalition is all set to form a government in Jammu and Kashmir, BJP on Friday asserted that with more number of MLAs, it deserves equal and important portfolios.

The BJP feels that it is now in a strong place to bargain from given the Modi government's 'strong' posturing on not 'succumbing' to the demands of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, who will be the new chief minister.

During Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's ten-month tenure, the ruling PDP had ten cabinet ministers, while the BJP had eight. Initially, the BJP had only 6 ministers, but managed to get two Ministers of State elevated to cabinet ministers.

BJP is demanding an extra cabinet berth to be on a par with the PDP which has the chief ministerial chair. The party is also asserting on having the minister of state (MoS) portfolio in the home ministry and planning department. As the PDP is unlikely to give up the home ministry, the BJP is instead pressuring for the MoS portfolio.

After the death of Sayeed, PDP's MLA count has come down to 27 from 28 in the 87-member assembly house. The BJP has 28 MLAs, including 2 from Sajjad Lone's Peoples Conference and 1 independent candidate.