Congress MLAs seek cabinet reshuffle, meet Kharge; SN Narayanaswamy clarifies no leadership change demand

Bengaluru : Amid growing buzz over a possible cabinet rejig in Karnataka, Congress MLA S. N. Narayanaswamy has confirmed that a group of legislators met AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi, urging a cabinet reshuffle.

Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, Narayanaswamy said the MLAs discussed the need for expansion and reorganisation of the cabinet. “We met Kharge and requested him to consider a cabinet reshuffle. He said the matter would be discussed and a decision would be taken soon,” he stated.

According to him, Kharge indicated that a reshuffle could take place in the first week of May. However, he emphasised that the final decision rests with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, as cabinet formation is his prerogative.

Narayanaswamy clarified that there was no discussion on leadership change during the meeting. “We have not demanded any change in leadership. That is entirely up to the party high command. We have only requested cabinet expansion,” he said, dismissing speculation about internal dissent against the Chief Minister.

Responding to questions about possible action against minority leaders, he said there was no concrete evidence to suggest that leaders such as Nazeer, Jabbar, or Zameer Ahmed Khan had engaged in anti-party activities. “Minor mistakes should not be taken seriously. There is no proof of wrongdoing. The high command may have its own inputs, but I do not see them as acting against the party,” he added.

He also stated that the party would abide by any decision taken by the high command and expressed confidence that past precedents of forgiving minor lapses could apply in the current situation as well.

Addressing allegations that certain communities or groups were being targeted, Narayanaswamy rejected the claims. He asserted that no specific faction within the party was being singled out and that action was not limited to supporters of the Chief Minister.

Backing Siddaramaiah, he said the Chief Minister continues to enjoy strong support within and outside the party. “His leadership remains strong and intact. There is no question of his influence declining,” he remarked.

The developments indicate heightened political activity within the Congress, with the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle likely to gain momentum in the coming weeks.