A Cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka appears likely as several Congress legislators have intensified efforts to secure ministerial positions. Both veteran leaders and first-time MLAs have traveled to Delhi to meet the central leadership and press their claims. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar defended these visits, stating legislators are seeking ministerial berths after the Cabinet expansion announcement. The 34-member Cabinet currently has 16 vacant positions, including two seats left by resignations. While Chief Minister Siddaramaiah received approval for a reshuffle five months ago, he preferred waiting until his government completed two-and-a-half years in power. Congress insiders suggest the changes will occur in late December or January 2025, likely after the Winter Session beginning December 8. Regional balance, upcoming local body elections, and internal party dynamics will influence the final selection.
Aspirants and Selection Factors for New Cabinet Positions
Senior leader B K Hariprasad, who was overlooked during Siddaramaiah's 2013-2018 term, is among the leading aspirants. Other contenders include former Deputy CM Laxman Savadi, former ministers T B Jayachandra, Basavaraj Raya Reddy, and R V Deshpande. First-time MLAs like A S Ponnanna and Nayana Motamma are also seeking positions, arguing for equal opportunity as given to current ministers Priyank Kharge and Krishna Byre Gowda. The party will consider regional calculations and the upcoming Greater Bengaluru Area polls while filling vacancies. Bengaluru's ministerial representation may increase from four to six. Two vacancies exist from B Nagendra's resignation over fraud allegations and K N Rajanna's removal following controversial comments.
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