Karnataka Cabinet Lobbying Intensifies As CM Shivakumar Meets Rahul Gandhi Over Vacant Berth

Lobbying has intensified within the Karnataka Congress over the one vacant Cabinet berth, with senior leaders seeking representation based on regional, community, caste and gender considerations. Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar travelled to New Delhi on Thursday and is expected to meet Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to discuss the Cabinet’s composition and other issues concerning the state government.

Shivakumar has sought an appointment with Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, with discussions also expected to involve AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal and Karnataka Congress in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala. The possible resignation of Minister for Planning and Statistics B. Nagendra amid the controversy surrounding alleged irregularities in tribal welfare programmes is also expected to figure in the discussions.

Several names are being considered for the vacant Cabinet position, with senior Congress MLA Basavaraj Shivannavar emerging as one of the prominent contenders. Shivannavar is reportedly backed by former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who is understood to have conveyed his preference to the party high command. The names of four-time Bengaluru MLA M. Krishnappa, Annapoorna Tukaram and Kampli Ganesh are also being discussed, including demands for greater representation for women.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi Accuses Bihar Govt Of Evading Accountability Amid Student Protests

The Cabinet equation could become more complicated if Nagendra resigns. The BJP and JD(S) have been holding protests demanding his resignation over the alleged tribal welfare case, while Nagendra has maintained that he is being targeted. He has also indicated that he would step down if directed by the Congress high command. PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi and Nagendra have also reached Delhi amid the latest round of discussions.

Uncertainty has also continued over the earlier announcement of senior Congress leader and MLC Gayathri Shantegowda as a minister. Although her name was included in the list, she was subsequently not called for the swearing-in ceremony. Party sources have indicated that Siddaramaiah is dissatisfied with what he considers disproportionate representation for Vokkaliga and Lingayat leaders and inadequate representation for minorities, with the former Chief Minister favouring Shivannavar's induction.

The Congress central leadership is expected to take the final decision on the vacant berth, Nagendra’s position and any wider changes to the Karnataka Cabinet. Discussions are also reportedly underway over the possible resignation of other ministers, potentially creating additional opportunities for senior party leaders. If the high command approves the move, the Congress is also considering a counter-protest march in response to the BJP's agitation demanding Nagendra's resignation.

Also Read: Kiren Rijiju Alleges Rahul Gandhi Directed Khera's Charges Against Himanta Sarma