One month after D.K. Shivakumar became Chief Minister of Karnataka, the state operates with only 13 ministers, leaving 20 Cabinet positions unfilled despite allowance for up to 34 members. The delay in expanding the Cabinet, attributed to political calculations and internal lobbying within the ruling Congress, has led to key departments lacking dedicated ministers during critical times of drought and administrative challenges.
Shivakumar assumed office on June 3 after a power struggle with his predecessor Siddaramaiah. His elevation aimed to resolve party factionalism, but a month later, Cabinet expansion remains pending due to ongoing political balancing within the Congress. While senior leaders vying for ministerial roles have not publicly expressed discontent, the absence of a full Cabinet has increased responsibilities for existing ministers.
In an effort to show unity, Chief Minister Shivakumar visited Siddaramaiah’s residence in Bengaluru with family members, discussing political developments. The government, facing controversies, defended itself against various issues including crimes, political confrontations, and administrative challenges. Despite the incomplete Cabinet, Shivakumar announced key policy initiatives to address public needs and infrastructure development.
