Congress Leadership Warns Against Lobbying in Karnataka Cabinet Expansion
The Congress high command has directed Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to avoid entertaining any lobbying from aspirants for ministerial positions, as the state prepares for a major cabinet expansion. Shivakumar, who took charge as Chief Minister on June 3, currently heads a 34-member cabinet, with 20 slots still vacant. The party's top brass has made it clear that merit and seniority should guide selections, not political pressure.
Background: Shivakumar's Cabinet and Vacant Positions
Shivakumar was sworn in as Chief Minister on June 3, 2026, along with 13 other ministers. However, the full cabinet strength is 34, leaving 20 positions to be filled. This has sparked intense lobbying among Congress MLAs and leaders vying for a place in the government. The party leadership, including senior figures from the central leadership, has stepped in to ensure a fair process.
According to party sources, the Congress high command has communicated to Shivakumar that he should not give in to any lobbying or recommendations from influential quarters. The directive is aimed at maintaining discipline and ensuring that the cabinet reflects the party's strategic priorities.
Hectic Lobbying and Party Intervention
Reports indicate that several MLAs have been actively campaigning for cabinet berths, with some even approaching national leaders. The high command's intervention is seen as a move to prevent factionalism and ensure that the expansion is based on performance and electoral considerations. A senior Congress leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "The party has made it clear that there will be no place for lobbying. The Chief Minister has been instructed to make decisions based on merit and party interests."
The expansion is expected to take place in the coming weeks, with focus on balancing regional and caste representations. The Congress government in Karnataka is keen to project stability and effective governance, and the cabinet expansion is a key step in that direction.
Impact on State Politics
The directive from the high command is likely to reshape the dynamics within the Karnataka Congress. It signals that the party leadership is closely monitoring the situation and will not tolerate internal bickering. This could also impact the ruling coalition's stability, as allies watch the process for signs of inclusivity.
Political analysts note that the move is aimed at preventing the kind of factionalism that plagued previous Congress governments in the state. By centralizing the decision-making, the party hopes to project a united front and focus on governance ahead of future elections.
