Congress Leaders Meet in Delhi to Expand Karnataka Cabinet

The Indian National Congress high command is finalizing the expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet after more than 40 days of vacancies. With only 14 members currently serving in a council with a sanctioned strength of 34, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar traveled to New Delhi on July 15 to consult with party leadership. The process was previously delayed by Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections.

President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and K.C. Venugopal met in the capital on July 14 to discuss organizational restructuring and the cabinet reshuffle. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has already submitted a list of proposed names, is scheduled to join the discussions on July 18. The party aims to finalize the appointments by July 20, ensuring the government is fully staffed before the Karnataka Legislature's Monsoon Session begins in August.

The expansion comes amid significant pressure from community leaders, religious seers, and MLAs, including protests in districts like Ballari. In response, the party high command issued a warning on June 24, stating that appointments would be based on performance, social representation, and regional balance rather than lobbying. Meanwhile, state leaders like Satish Jarkiholi have advocated for specific regional representation, suggesting the Belagavi district deserves three ministerial positions to strengthen the party for future elections.