Sengupta, who is now the petroleum and natural gas secretary, said he did not wish to comment.

The industry ministry reportedly is keen on Sengupta continuing on the Maruti board since the company is entangled in a legal dispute with its foreign partner, Suzuki Motor Corporation, over the appointment of the managing director, RSSLN Bhaskarudu.

Suzuki has filed a petition in the International Council of Arbitration against the government and Maruti, terming it a violation of the joint-venture agreement by unilaterally deciding on Bhaskarudu's appointment. Later, Suzuki also challenged the government for posting it nominee as Maruti chairman.