A Cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka appears likely as the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government crosses two-and-a-half years in office. Multiple legislators and council members, both experienced and first-time elected representatives, have travelled to Delhi to lobby for ministerial positions. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar confirmed that aspirants are seeking berths following the official announcement of expansion. Currently, 16 vacancies exist in the 34-member Cabinet, including two spots left vacant after resignations linked to corruption allegations and controversial statements. Senior leaders overlooked in previous terms, first-time lawmakers, and politicians from Bengaluru are among the hopefuls. The party leadership is weighing regional balance, electoral considerations, and upcoming local body elections while deciding appointments. Insiders suggest the actual induction may happen only in late December or January, after the Winter Assembly Session scheduled for December 8. Internal power dynamics between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar continue to influence the reshuffle timeline.
Cabinet Expansion Delayed Amid Leadership Tensions
Although the Congress high command approved the Cabinet reshuffle five months ago, Siddaramaiah chose to delay it until completing two-and-a-half years in office. The expansion faces complications due to differences between the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who has long aspired to lead the state. Sources indicate Shivakumar opposes the reshuffle unless accompanied by a leadership transition. A group of seven to eight lawmakers, considered Shivakumar's supporters, recently met party chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi. The high command reportedly asked Siddaramaiah to postpone changes, especially after the Mahagathbandhan's recent Bihar election setback. Plans for appointing a new state party president have also stalled due to Shivakumar's reluctance to step down from his current position.
Source: Link