Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday said that the Karnataka cabinet expansion is on hold as no proposal has been received from Chief Minister-designate D.K. Shivakumar. Speaking to reporters, Kharge emphasized that greater clarity on the composition of the ministry would emerge only after Shivakumar is sworn in as chief minister.
Kharge's Statement on Cabinet Expansion
Kharge stated, "We have not received any proposal regarding the cabinet expansion from Shivakumar yet. The process will be initiated after he takes oath as chief minister." He further added that the party high command would deliberate on the matter once a formal proposal is submitted.
Shivakumar's Swearing-In Ceremony
The swearing-in ceremony of D.K. Shivakumar as the next chief minister of Karnataka is expected to take place in the coming days. The Congress party is yet to announce the date and venue for the event. Sources indicate that the ceremony may be held at the Bengaluru Palace Grounds, with several dignitaries from the Congress party expected to attend.
Speculations Over Cabinet Berths
Political circles are abuzz with speculation over who will be inducted into the new cabinet. Several senior Congress leaders from Karnataka are vying for key portfolios, including home, revenue, and education. The party is likely to maintain a balance among various caste groups and regions while forming the cabinet.
Previous Cabinet Under Siddaramaiah
The previous Congress government in Karnataka, led by Siddaramaiah, had a 34-member cabinet. However, the new cabinet under Shivakumar is expected to be smaller in size, as per the party's policy of limiting the number of ministers.
Meanwhile, the opposition parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Dal (Secular), have criticized the delay in cabinet formation, accusing the Congress of internal strife. However, Congress leaders dismissed these allegations, stating that the process is being carried out systematically.
