Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that the final decision on Cabinet expansion rests with the Congress high command. A meeting planned for the day had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. The Chief Minister mentioned that the Government had received approval to expand the Cabinet and conduct the swearing-in of new ministers on Wednesday.
Shivakumar shared details of a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence where he, along with other leaders, was briefly detained. He highlighted an incident where LoP Rahul Gandhi intervened to prevent the police from touching him during the protest. Responding to queries about criteria for Cabinet appointments, Shivakumar emphasized that such matters are not typically discussed in public.
When asked about the possibility of filling all 20 vacant ministerial positions, Shivakumar expressed his desire to see all positions occupied. He emphasized the importance of promptly finalizing the list and filling key roles like Chief Whip, Chairman of the Legislative Council, and Speaker. The Chief Minister also stressed the need to follow the guidance provided by the leadership in Delhi and offer opportunities to deserving young leaders.
Shivakumar addressed the ongoing student protests regarding a question paper leak that affected over 2.5 million students. He emphasized the importance of addressing the students’ grievances and demanded the resignation of Union Ministers involved in the issue to ensure justice for the affected students.
