Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, leading the biggest Cabinet in the country's history, has said the size of the incumbent Cabinet may be expanded further.

Government has come under severe criticisms from many quarters over the jumbo size of the Cabinet after its size swelled to 54 with sixth expansion within three months on Monday.

Deuba had reached Biratnagar to take part in the party's election programmes in province 2 and was questioned about the criticisms on the size of his Cabinet. "Despite the size, many are still vying for ministerial berths. Cabinet may be expanded further if needs be," Deuba responded.

Deuba also clarified the recent expansion will not be withdrawn. Election Commission had expressed its dissatisfaction over the expansion saying it was against the election code of conduct. "Election Commission has said nothing about withdrawing the expansion," Deuba said.

The PM also rebuffed claims of violating election code of conduct. He claimed government had taken approval from the EC before inducting ministers as it was put in a difficult situation.

In another context, PM Deuba said the constitution amendment bill will be tabled in the parliament after the elections. He also said an investigation was ongoing on the controversial land purchase deal by Nepal Oil Corporation and government will take further steps after report from the investigation.