Murli Manohar Joshi meets Modi amidst speculation about his induction in government

NEW DELHI: Senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi today met Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid speculation that he could be accommodated in the union cabinet.

Sources said the meeting between the two leaders at the Prime Minister's Office lasted for about 45 minutes.

The meeting comes amidst media speculation that there could be an expansion of the cabinet soon and key ministries like Defence, which have been given as additional charge to Ministers, could have full-time incumbents.

Joshi's name has also figured as a possible candidate for Defence Ministry which Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is currently having as additional charge.

Despite being a senior BJP leader, Joshi, who draws support from RSS, BJP's ideological fountainhead, has not found a place in Modi's cabinet.

Joshi's meeting with Modi today came shortly after BJP President Rajnath Singh's meeting with top RSS leaders today morning, after which he met Modi.

Sources said Joshi has offered to work under Modi in the government, the former's role in the government is being worked out, party insiders say, adding he may also be considered for an advisory role.

Soon after the party's landslide electoral victory, Modi had visited Joshi's residence and spent over an hour with the party veteran.