Karnataka Politics Set for Major Shift as DK Shivakumar Prepares for Chief Minister Oath
Karnataka's Political Landscape on the Verge of Change
A significant transformation is on the horizon in Karnataka's political scene. Senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar is poised to take the oath as the new Chief Minister on June 3. Reports suggest that in the initial phase, around 10 to 12 legislators are expected to be sworn in as ministers alongside him. Preparations for the grand oath-taking ceremony are in full swing at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan, Bengaluru. Many top national leaders from Congress, including Rahul Gandhi, are anticipated to arrive in Bengaluru to witness this historic event.
Discussions Among Congress Leadership
The proposal was discussed during a late-night meeting involving Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, KC Venugopal, and Randeep Singh Surjewala. However, sources indicate that Shivakumar has informed the party leadership of his preference not to appoint any deputy chief ministers in his government. The final decision on this matter is expected to be made by Rahul Gandhi.
Potential Deputy Chief Minister Candidates
According to sources, Siddaramaiah has recommended three names for the deputy chief minister positions: G Parameshwara from the Dalit community, MB Patil representing the Lingayat community, and Zameer Ahmed Khan as a representative of the Muslim community. However, Zameer Ahmed Khan faces allegations of working against the party during the Davanagere by-elections, and a leaked audio clip that surfaced on Tuesday has intensified the controversy surrounding him.
Siddaramaiah's Focus on Loyalists in Cabinet
Siddaramaiah is reportedly keen on including his loyalists in the cabinet. His son, Yatindra Siddaramaiah, is expected to be part of the cabinet. Additionally, Siddaramaiah has requested the inclusion of several close associates, including Zameer Ahmed Khan, H.C. Mahadevappa, Santosh Lad, Basavaraj Rayareddy, Venkatesh, B. Suresh, Puttaranga Shetty, and B.K. Hariprasad. The Congress high command is anticipated to make a final decision on these names after discussions with Shivakumar.
Expected Ministers in the First Phase of Cabinet Expansion
The leaders likely to be included in the first phase of the cabinet expansion are: Yatindra Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, K.J. George, Ramalinga Reddy, Priyank Kharge, M.B. Patil, Ishwar Khandre, Krishna Byre Gowda, Lakshmi Hebbalkar, B. Suresh, Satish Jarkiholi, and Zameer Ahmed Khan. Sources suggest that if Satish Jarkiholi agrees to take on the role of Karnataka Congress President, he may not be included in the cabinet. In such a case, B.K. Hariprasad could be accommodated, or Jarkiholi might assume the responsibilities of the state party chief.