In a significant development within the ruling Congress party in Karnataka, a call has been made for a major overhaul of the state cabinet. The party's leadership has been urged to consider moving some of the existing ministers to dedicated party work while bringing in a substantial number of new faces.
Chief Whip Reveals Reshuffle Demands
The revelation came from Saleem Ahmed, the Chief Whip of the Karnataka government in the Legislative Council. Ahmed stated that the proposal includes a notable stipulation: the inclusion of 50 per cent new faces in the Cabinet. This move is seen as an attempt to infuse fresh energy and possibly address internal party dynamics and regional representation ahead of crucial electoral cycles.
Strategic Shift for Ministers and Party
The suggestion to shift sitting ministers to party work indicates a strategic thought process within the Congress. It aims to leverage the experience of seasoned leaders for strengthening the party's organizational framework across the state. Such a shift could free up cabinet positions for new entrants, aligning with the demand for a significant renewal of the council of ministers.
This internal push for a Karnataka Cabinet reshuffle underscores the ongoing political manoeuvring within the state's ruling dispensation. The details were made public on 01 January 2026, as reported. The call for change reflects a balancing act between rewarding loyalty, accommodating various factions, and presenting a renewed face of the government to the public.
Implications for Karnataka Politics
If implemented, a reshuffle of this scale would mark one of the most substantial changes to the Siddaramaiah-led government's ministry since it came to power. The demand for 50% new faces signals a potential generational shift and could be a response to feedback about governance and outreach.
The development is poised to keep Karnataka politics in the spotlight, as speculation will now mount over which ministers might be moved to organizational roles and which new legislators could find a place in the cabinet. The final decision rests with the party's high command and the Chief Minister, who will weigh these internal suggestions against administrative stability and political expediency.
