Cabinet – Moily Stresses Merit Amid Karnataka Congress Demands
Cabinet – Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily has weighed in on the growing demand within the Karnataka Congress for greater representation of first-time legislators in the state cabinet, stating that merit should remain the guiding principle in any ministerial appointment.
A day after 31 Congress MLAs formally urged the party leadership to induct new faces into the Karnataka cabinet, Moily underscored that political beginnings are common to all and cautioned against relying on pressure tactics to secure ministerial positions.
Moily Calls for Merit-Based Appointments
Speaking to reporters, Moily reflected on his own early days in public life, recalling that he entered politics at the age of 22 when Devaraj Urs was serving as Chief Minister. According to him, even during that period, newcomers were entrusted with responsibilities.
He said it would be unfair to argue that first-time legislators should automatically be excluded from cabinet positions. Every experienced leader, he noted, was once a newcomer. However, he was clear that lobbying or coordinated pressure should not determine who gets appointed as a minister.
Moily emphasized that competence and ability must take precedence over seniority alone. If an individual demonstrates merit, he said, there is no reason they should be denied an opportunity.
Letter to Congress Leadership
The remarks come in response to a letter signed by 31 Congress MLAs and addressed to senior party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. In the letter, the legislators requested that first-time MLAs be included in the upcoming cabinet reshuffle.
The MLAs pointed out that 38 members were elected to the Karnataka Legislative Assembly for the first time on a Congress ticket. They described this outcome as a reflection of public sentiment favoring new and younger representatives in the state’s governance.
The signatories argued that this mandate should be respected by ensuring cabinet representation for fresh faces. They suggested that at least five first-time MLAs be considered for ministerial roles when the reshuffle takes place.
Balancing Experience and Youth
In their communication, the MLAs maintained that a combination of seasoned leaders and emerging representatives would create a balanced and effective administration. They expressed confidence in the party leadership’s judgment and called for a decision that aligns with the expectations of voters.
The letter emphasized that incorporating new legislators would not undermine experienced leaders but would instead strengthen the government by blending institutional knowledge with new perspectives.
Regional Voices Join the Appeal
Congress MLA Mantar Gowda confirmed that several party legislators had written to the high command seeking opportunities for first-time representatives. Gowda, who represents the Madikeri Assembly constituency in Kodagu district, said the request is particularly significant for regions seeking stronger representation.
He acknowledged the presence of senior leaders within the party but described the appeal as a respectful request rather than a demand. According to him, at least one first-time MLA from Kodagu should be considered if a cabinet reshuffle occurs.
Gowda clarified that the final decision rests with the party leadership and would depend on broader considerations. He reiterated that the appeal is aimed at ensuring inclusive representation without challenging the established hierarchy.
Awaiting Leadership Decision
The developments come amid speculation about a possible cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka. While the party has not officially announced any changes, the letter from the MLAs has drawn attention to internal discussions about representation and generational transition within the Congress government.
As the leadership deliberates, the focus remains on striking a balance between rewarding experience and encouraging new leadership. Moily’s comments reinforce the view that while opportunities should remain open to newcomers, the determining factor must ultimately be merit rather than coordinated lobbying.