Karnataka Leaders Discuss Cabinet Formation Amid Speculations
Key Discussions on Cabinet Formation in Karnataka
D.K. Shivakumar, nominated for the Chief Minister position, along with senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah, is currently in New Delhi for crucial discussions with the Congress high command. The agenda includes the formation of the new cabinet, allocation of departments, and significant organizational appointments within the state. This meeting comes amid intense lobbying for ministerial positions within the Karnataka Congress and speculation regarding the potential appointment of one or more deputy chief ministers to maintain social and regional balance.
Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah traveled together from Bengaluru to Delhi to consult with party leadership. There are also expectations that Siddaramaiah's son, MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, will participate in these discussions, fueling speculation about his possible role in the new government. Recently, the Congress assembly elected Shivakumar as its leader, paving the way for his ascension as Chief Minister. The Governor, Thawarchand Gehlot, has invited him to form the government, with the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for June 3 at the Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru.
Amidst the political buzz in Karnataka regarding the potential cabinet structure, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge indicated that no final proposal regarding the cabinet size or the creation of deputy chief minister positions has reached the party leadership yet. Speaking in Kalaburagi, Kharge mentioned that discussions about the number of ministers, deputy chief ministers, and key chair positions will commence only after a formal proposal is presented.
Kharge stated that no proposal has been submitted so far. Once a proposal is received, discussions will take place regarding the number of ministers to be appointed, the appointment of deputy chief ministers, and the creation of important chair positions. He also hinted that the cabinet formation might occur in phases, noting uncertainty about whether the proposal will include eight or ten ministers. Further expansion may occur in a subsequent phase.