Karnataka cabinet expansion likely next week, Congress govt to finalise list by Sunday

The long-delayed expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet is nearing finalization, with state Congress leaders anticipating a swearing-in ceremony as early as Monday. The party's central leadership is expected to approve the ministerial list by Sunday night after extensive discussions.

Discussions have focused on achieving a balanced representation within the new cabinet. Leaders are considering factors such as caste, religion, regional demographics, and the inclusion of both younger politicians and representatives from major and underrepresented communities. The possibility of leaving some positions vacant until after local body elections was also debated.

Key figures, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, have been involved in the deliberations. State leaders presented potential candidates, with central leadership reviewing names individually. Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah reportedly had differing views on prioritizing certain communities, with Siddaramaiah advocating for greater representation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and minorities, while Shivakumar sought a broader balance including younger legislators.

Ultimately, Rahul Gandhi instructed Karnataka leaders to return to Bengaluru, stating the final list would be dispatched Sunday night. Shivakumar indicated a preference for the swearing-in ceremony to occur on Monday, a date considered auspicious by some party members.

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We have written the exam, and now we are waiting for the results.