Karnataka Cabinet Reshuffle: CM DK Shivakumar to Visit Delhi Tomorrow, 3 Ministers Likely to Lose Their Posts

Bengaluru: Speculation over a major reshuffle in the Karnataka cabinet has intensified, with Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar set to travel to New Delhi on Wednesday for crucial discussions with the Congress high command. The visit is expected to focus on long-pending appointments to state corporations and boards, as well as filling the lone vacant cabinet berth.

Despite taking charge after a prolonged political tussle, CM Shivakumar is yet to resolve the growing pressure surrounding cabinet expansion and political accommodation. His meeting with the party leadership is likely to play a key role in shaping the next phase of the government’s political strategy.

The race for the vacant ministerial position has become increasingly competitive. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is reportedly pushing for Basavaraj Shivannavar, arguing that the Kuruba community currently has inadequate representation in the cabinet. At the same time, senior Congress leader M. Krishnappa is also lobbying strongly for a ministerial berth.

The Congress high command is expected to weigh both claims before taking a final call, with CM Shivakumar seeking its approval during his Delhi visit.

Nagendra’s Position Under Review:

The future of B. Nagendra in the cabinet is also expected to come under discussion. Amid growing criticism over his inclusion in the ministry, reports suggest that the Congress leadership may consider dropping him from the cabinet.

There is also speculation that Balakrishna could lose his ministerial post as part of the reshuffle. If the proposed changes are approved, the vacancies could reportedly be filled by M. Krishnappa and Basavaraj Shivannavar.

Lakshmi Hebbalkar Emerges as a Strong Contender:

With increasing pressure on the Congress leadership to improve women’s representation in the cabinet, Lakshmi Hebbalkar has emerged as a strong contender for a ministerial berth. Sources indicate that CM Shivakumar is likely to propose her name during his discussions with the party high command.

In addition to the cabinet reshuffle, appointments to various state corporations and boards are expected to be finalised. Leaders who miss out on cabinet positions may be accommodated as chairpersons of these corporations, with some of the current office-bearers likely to be replaced.

The upcoming meeting in New Delhi is expected to be crucial in resolving both the cabinet reshuffle and pending political appointments. However, the final decisions will rest with the Congress high command, whose approval is essential before any changes are officially announced.