Panaji, Jun 25 (TOI): The BJP seems divided over the proposed move to induct St Cruz MLA Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate in the Laxmikant Parsekar cabinet.

Sources in the party said that defence minister and former chief minister Manohar Parrikar is in favour of getting Monserrate into the cabinet but this doesn't seem to have gone down well with many in the party and legislature wing. It is not only the hardliners in the party, many moderates too are opposed to the induction of Monserrate into the cabinet. On the other hand, some feel that the party stands to gain if Monserrate is made a minister in the BJP-led government. They feel that with Monserrate's support, the party could expect at least four seats in Tiswadi. Currently, BJP has two - St Andre and Panaji.

Sources said that the move to give ministerial berth to Monserrate who is an unattached member, has taken many in the BJP by surprise. As reported by TOI on Wednesday, the move appears to be to strengthen the BJP for the 2017 assembly polls. Monserrate is likely to meet Parrikar on Thursday. Party sources said that the leadership is uncertain of getting the magic figure of 21 even if it continues the alliance with MGP and GVP. Having truck with disgruntled Congress leaders seems to be its strategy. Dabolim MLA Mauvin Godinho who helped BJP win the South Goa parliamentary seat is also waiting for a ministerial berth.

Sources say there appeared to be some pact with Monserrate when he threatened to contest as independent from Panaji for the bypoll recently as the St Cruz MLA's entry in the fray would have spoilt the party for the BJP.

In this backdrop, sources say that the proposed induction of Monserrate seems to be a quid pro quo. tnn.