DK Shivakumar dismisses cabinet expansion rumors, warns media against spreading false news

Bengaluru : Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday firmly denied all speculation about a cabinet expansion in Karnataka, warning media outlets against publishing “baseless” stories. Speaking to reporters, he said, “There is no cabinet expansion, none at all. Media is spreading false news. Whatever happens, the high command will decide.”

Responding to questions about a possible reshuffle, Shivakumar clarified, “If neither the Chief Minister nor I initiate any proposal, any news otherwise is baseless. Some people speak hastily in front of the media.” He further cautioned, “If false news is circulated about me, I will consider legal action for defamation.”

Shivakumar emphasized that he is not in a hurry to assume the Chief Minister’s post, stating, “I am working day and night to serve the people. There is no need to announce that my time as CM is near. I know my goals and will wait for the right opportunity.”

Priyank Kharge echoes high command authority
Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge also reinforced that only the party high command has the authority to make official announcements regarding cabinet formation or reshuffles. “There is no credibility to speculative talk about power-sharing or cabinet reconstruction. Any statement must come from Congress high command leaders such as Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, or Rahul Gandhi,” he said.

Kharge added that notices have been issued to those giving unauthorized statements and warned that officials should refrain from interpreting routine events, like ministerial lunch meetings called by the Chief Minister, as indicative of political maneuvers. “A lunch organized by the CM or the Deputy CM has no hidden political meaning. We eat even simple meals together; there’s nothing to read into it,” he explained.

Santosha Ladd emphasizes restraint
Labour Minister Santosha Ladd reinforced that ministers and legislators should avoid public comments on cabinet changes. “We must not create confusion. Any requests or opinions must be taken to the high command, not to the media. The decision about ministerial appointments rests solely with them,” he said.

With these clarifications, the Deputy CM and party leaders sought to quell rampant speculation, asserting that all decisions regarding the state cabinet remain under the authority of the Congress high command.

This comes amid growing media speculation about a potential reshuffle in Karnataka, which leaders insist is premature and unfounded.