The Congress-led alliance in Goa [Images] has decided to postpone Cabinet expansion till after the confidence vote.

Observers said the decision has been taken in view of the clamour for Cabinet berths from many leaders.

Chief Minister Pratap Singh Rane has inducted eight members in the Cabinet, leaving only four more places.

At least 11 more leaders, including two former chief ministers, eight former ministers and Congress spokesman Jitendra Deshprabhu, have been demanding berths in Rane's Cabinet.

Rane was sworn in as chief minister after the Bharatiya Janata Party government led by Manohar Parrikar [Images] was dismissed by Governor S C Jamir on Wednesday.

Congress observer Margaret Alva, who flew down from Delhi on Friday afternoon, met Jamir and told him that the alliance was prepared to face confidence vote any time.

Rane, however, had told media persons after the swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday that he would seek confidence vote only during the budget session next month.

If the governor agrees to the CM's proposal, the Congress will succeed in postponing any crisis for at least a month.

Earlier stories:

Goa governor flays speaker's role in trust vote

Rane inducts 6 more in his Cabinet

BJP petitions Kalam to recall Jamir