The Congress leadership will meet in Delhi on Tuesday to finalize the Karnataka cabinet expansion, with 20 ministerial berths still vacant in the DK Shivakumar-led government. The current cabinet has 14 members, including the Chief Minister, against a sanctioned strength of 34.
Congress High Command to Decide on Karnataka Cabinet
Party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal will discuss organisational restructuring and the long-pending cabinet expansion. Kharge stated on Monday that the process would begin "at the earliest" after Gandhi returns from his overseas visit.
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has reached Delhi for consultations with the high command. He told reporters that the expansion would proceed once the party leadership sets a date, likely before the Karnataka legislature session begins on August 6.
Lobbying Intensifies as 20 Berths Remain Vacant
Several MLAs, including Ashok Pattan, Shivalinge Gowda, and TD Rajegowda, met Kharge in Bengaluru over the weekend to push their claims. The Congress has cautioned against public lobbying, urging discipline to avoid factionalism.
Senior leader Satish Jarkiholi noted that Belagavi, a large district, should receive more representation, suggesting three ministerial positions. He also reaffirmed that the party would contest the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections under Shivakumar’s leadership.
