Amid speculation about the Karnataka Cabinet’s expansion, Muslim religious leaders met Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to advocate for senior Congress leader Saleem Ahmed’s inclusion in the Cabinet. They emphasized the need for increased representation of the Muslim community, pushing for three to five ministerial positions. Currently, 13 Cabinet slots are filled, with the remaining 20 expected to be finalized soon.
Syed Tajuddin Khadri, from the All Karnataka Sunni Mashayikh Council, highlighted the absence of Muslim leaders from the Kittur Karnataka region in the Cabinet for nearly two decades. The delegation urged a ministerial post for Saleem Ahmed, a veteran Congress member with a significant track record. They submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Shivakumar and also met former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to reinforce their request.
The delegation expressed gratitude to Siddaramaiah for his contributions to the welfare of Muslims and marginalized communities. They praised Saleem Ahmed’s efforts in organizing programs dedicated to Sufi saints in North Karnataka, promoting communal harmony. Stressing the importance of inclusivity, they appealed to the Chief Minister to consider Ahmed for a Cabinet position, emphasizing his support for initiatives fostering love and harmony.
Referring to past administrations, Khadri recalled a time when five Muslim leaders were part of the Cabinet during former Chief Minister S.M. Krishna’s tenure. The delegation also approached Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President B.K. Hariprasad, seeking ministerial representation for Saleem Ahmed and other Muslim leaders. Meanwhile, Congress MLA Vijayananda Kashappanavar vied for a Cabinet berth, meeting Chief Minister Shivakumar to express his aspirations for inclusion in the expanded Cabinet.
Ministers Krishna Byre Gowda, K.H. Muniyappa, and Ramalinga Reddy, who had raised concerns over portfolio allocations, seem to have resolved their issues after the party’s intervention. With dissent seemingly addressed, Chief Minister Shivakumar is poised to proceed with the Cabinet expansion, a significant test of his leadership.
