With the new Congress government in Karnataka taking charge under Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and the swearing-in of 13 ministers in the first phase, political attention has now turned to the next round of cabinet expansion.
D.K. Shivakumar assumed office as Karnataka’s Chief Minister on June 3, along with Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara and a 13-member council of ministers. The first cabinet included several senior Congress leaders and key representatives from different regions and communities.
However, several cabinet berths remain vacant, and Congress leaders are actively lobbying for inclusion in the ministry. Party sources indicate that the next phase of expansion is likely after the Rajya Sabha and Karnataka Legislative Council elections scheduled later this month.
The cabinet expansion is expected to focus on balancing regional representation, caste equations, and the aspirations of legislators who were left out during the first round. Many MLAs and senior party leaders are hoping to secure ministerial positions as the government seeks to strengthen its political and administrative base.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Shivakumar has already allocated portfolios to the ministers inducted in the first phase, retaining key departments such as Finance and Personnel with himself. Some reports have indicated dissatisfaction among a few leaders regarding portfolio distribution, adding to speculation over future cabinet changes.
The upcoming cabinet expansion is expected to be closely watched, as it will play a crucial role in shaping the political direction of the new Congress government and maintaining internal party balance.
