Siddaramaiah plans ‘major surgery’ in cabinet as Congress government completes two years

Cabinet Reshuffle: With the completion of two years of the Congress government in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is preparing for a massive cabinet reshuffle that could change the political dynamics of the state.

Sources close to the Chief Minister describe the move as a “major surgery” intended to infuse new energy into the administration and strengthen the party’s image ahead of future electoral challenges.

According to reports, Siddaramaiah is seriously considering replacing at least 15 to as many as 25 ministers. The reshuffle is expected to be completed by the time the government reaches its 30-month mark, with the Belagavi session identified as the likely time frame.

The exercise aims to induct young leaders and loyal party workers into the cabinet while shifting some senior ministers to organizational roles within the Congress.

Focus on fresh faces and efficiency:

The Chief Minister’s plan is to reward performing legislators and loyalists while addressing complaints about non-performing ministers. By involving younger leaders, Siddaramaiah seeks to project the image of a responsive and result-driven government. The reshuffle, party insiders say, will also serve as a test of balance between regional and community representation within the Congress.

Consultations with high command:

Siddaramaiah is said to have sought time from the party high command and plans to visit Delhi to meet AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior leaders to finalize the reshuffle blueprint. The move is also seen as an attempt to assert Siddaramaiah’s leadership amid the ongoing internal tussle with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

While Shivakumar has maintained a studied silence, political observers believe the reshuffle could temporarily stall discussions about a change in leadership. The Chief Minister, described by aides as a “political technician,” appears determined to ensure stability and efficiency in governance.

Likely names for inclusion:

The leaders being considered for cabinet induction reportedly include B.K. Hariprasad, Saleem Ahmed, Nagendra, Basavaraja Rayareddy, Appaji Nadagouda, Lakshmana Savadi, Roop Shashidhar, Srinivas G.H., M. Krishnappa, T.B. Jayachandra, Rizwan Arshad, U.T. Khader, Raghumurthy, Shivalingegowda, H.C. Balakrishna, P.M. Narendra Swamy, and Anekal Shivanna.

Why the reshuffle now?

Pressure has mounted to inject new energy as the government crosses its halfway mark. Several MLAs have reportedly complained to the high command about underperforming ministers.

The CM believes fresh appointments will help accelerate administrative work and strengthen governance. If approved by the Congress leadership, Siddaramaiah’s reshuffle could mark the most significant internal shake-up in the Karnataka government since it came to power in 2023.

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