Karnataka Chief Minister Faces Cabinet Turmoil Over Department Allocations

Karnataka's Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is facing significant challenges as discontent brews over the allocation of departments in his newly formed cabinet. Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has raised concerns about the control of key agencies, leading to his visit to Delhi for clarification from party leadership. This situation follows a recent resignation by Ramalinga Reddy, who claimed he was promised a ministerial role. With ongoing lobbying for vacant cabinet positions, the political landscape in Karnataka remains tense and dynamic. Read on to discover more about the unfolding events and their implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 9, 2026, 12:45 IST

Cabinet Discontent in Karnataka

The challenges for Karnataka's Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar seem far from over, as dissatisfaction regarding the allocation of departments within the newly formed cabinet is emerging. While the Congress high command successfully persuaded senior leader Ramalinga Reddy to withdraw his resignation, a new controversy has arisen concerning Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda. Although Gowda has been assigned the Bengaluru Development Ministry, reports indicate that he has yet to take charge. He is reportedly unhappy that key agencies such as the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) and the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) remain under Shivakumar's control.

Concerns Raised by Minister Gowda

According to sources, Gowda has communicated his concerns to the Congress leadership, arguing that without the BDA and BMRDA, there is a lack of authority and meaningful action within his portfolio. While he oversees the Greater Bengaluru Development portfolio, which includes five proposed municipalities under the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) along with agencies like BWSSB and BMRCL, he is reportedly dissatisfied with the absence of major urban planning bodies.

Gowda's Visit to Delhi

Reports suggest that the minister has traveled to Delhi to seek clarification from party leadership, aiming to either incorporate the BDA and BMRDA into his department or to completely revamp his portfolio. Sources indicate that Gowda has spoken with Rahul Gandhi and raised this issue in front of AICC Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala. This development comes just days after Ramalinga Reddy resigned on June 5, merely two days after taking the oath, claiming he was promised the Bengaluru Development Ministry portfolio.

Political Maneuvering Continues

Following intervention from the high command, Reddy was eventually persuaded to stay, with assurances that his concerns would be addressed during future cabinet expansions. Shivakumar's worries have intensified as Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad has also arrived in Delhi amid ongoing lobbying for ministerial positions. Despite the recent swearing-in of Shivakumar and 13 ministers, there are still 21 vacant positions in the cabinet, prompting candidates eager for roles to ramp up their efforts.

Stay Updated with National News

For the latest updates on national politics, events, and major news stories, stay tuned to reliable news sources.