Karnataka – Shivakumar Meets Rahul Gandhi and Kharge to Finalise Cabinet Changes
Karnataka – DK Shivakumar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, reached Delhi on Thursday night to hold important discussions with senior Congress leaders. He is expected to meet Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge today to talk about the upcoming cabinet reshuffle and other key political matters in the state.
Leadership Transition in Karnataka
The development follows Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s decision to step down from his post on Thursday. After months of speculation about a possible change at the top, Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation to the Governor’s office, describing the move as voluntary and based on the advice of the Congress high command. He made it clear during a press interaction that there was no external pressure and that the party’s legislature wing along with the central leadership would decide the next Chief Minister.
Key Issues on the Agenda
Party sources indicate that the Delhi meeting will focus on several important subjects. These include the selection of candidates for Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council seats, as well as the formation of the new cabinet under DK Shivakumar’s leadership. Discussions will also cover how to maintain proper social and regional representation in the government. There is talk within the party about appointing up to four deputy chief ministers to achieve better balance.
Expected Changes in the Cabinet
Several ministers from the current Siddaramaiah-led cabinet may not find a place in the new arrangement. However, sources suggest that Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister’s son and a Member of the Legislative Council, is likely to be inducted into the cabinet. He is expected to receive a significant portfolio, which would signal continuity of the present leadership’s approach and legacy.
**Rajya Sabha and MLC Seat Strategy**
Out of the four Rajya Sabha seats going to polls in Karnataka, the Congress party is confident of winning at least two comfortably. It also holds an advantage on the third seat, needing only a small number of additional votes. Mallikarjun Kharge is expected to be renominated for one of the seats. AICC Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala will submit the panel for two of these seats. Separately, a list of probable candidates for the seven Legislative Council seats will also be presented to the top leadership.
Weather Delays and Sidetracks
Shivakumar arrived late at the Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi. Speaking briefly about the situation, he mentioned the difficult weather conditions affecting travel. Siddaramaiah’s flight was diverted to Jaipur because of bad weather, where he had an unplanned but cordial meeting with former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Randeep Surjewala at the airport. Siddaramaiah later shared on social media that the interaction was warm and positive.
Next Steps in the Process
The Congress Legislative Party meeting, which is largely considered a formal step, is likely to have its date decided during today’s discussions. Once that happens, the schedule for DK Shivakumar’s swearing-in ceremony as the new Chief Minister will also be finalised. Party insiders say the entire process is being handled smoothly to ensure stability in the state government.
The developments reflect the Congress party’s efforts to manage internal dynamics while keeping its focus on governance and representation in Karnataka. Observers will be watching closely to see how the new cabinet shapes up and what impact these changes may have on the state’s political future in the coming months.
This transition comes at a time when the party aims to strengthen its position ahead of future electoral challenges. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have played crucial roles in the state unit, and their combined experience is expected to guide the Congress through this period of change. The high command’s involvement shows the importance being given to a balanced and inclusive approach in the new government formation.