The Congress and the NCP have finally reached an agreement over berth-sharing in the would-be Cabinet, sources told NDTV today. As per the deal, the Congress will have 23 ministers  while the NCP will get 20 portfolios, including home and finance.

The two sides had worked out a formula and was waiting for the Congress high command's approval.

After a series of meetings on Wednesday, senior NCP leader Praful Patel had said that the new government would be in place on Friday or by Saturday.

On Wednesday, Governor SC Jamir had publically rebuked the Congress and the NCP for the delay in government formation. The two allies were voted to power with clear numbers nearly two weeks ago, but had been fighting over portfolios since then.

The governor was forced to intervene because the winning partners Cong and NCP failed to form a government due to their continuing squabble over the distribution of Cabinet berths even after two weeks since the polls results were declared.

Soon after the putdown, the allies said the deadlock would end soon. Chavan even went on to say that a new government could be in place within 48 hours.

"There are still a few small differences with the NCP, but we hope to resolve them latest by Thursday morning," he said.

"Now it is just a matter of a few hours," reiterated NCP leader Praful Patel.

The allies also faced pressure from the public and the Opposition with the Shiv Sena-BJP combine demanding President's rule in the state. The delay has crippled the state machinery, already running slow for two months now because of the election code of conduct.

Crucial posts like the state director general of police and Mumbai municipal commissioner have not been filled. Major projects like the Dharavi Redevelopment Plan and the extension of the Mumbai sea-link are blocked.