Amid speculation surrounding a potential cabinet reshuffle, over 20 senior MLAs from the ruling Congress party in Karnataka are organizing a trip to Delhi to meet the party’s top leadership. This move gains significance as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar are engaged in a leadership tussle. The senior MLAs, who have been elected multiple times, see an opportunity to present their demands to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and the national leadership.
Congress insiders suggest that the anticipated cabinet reshuffle may escalate tensions between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, with each reportedly preparing their own lists of supporters. Additionally, party sources indicate that the high command has also drafted a separate list. Reacting to these developments, T.B. Jayachandra, a seven-time MLA and Special Representative of the Karnataka Government in Delhi, emphasized that the visiting senior MLAs are experienced individuals who have made significant contributions to the party.
Jayachandra clarified that the planned visit to Delhi by the veteran MLAs aims to directly engage with their high command leader, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. He stressed that any cabinet reshuffle should be based on political considerations, especially with an eye on the upcoming 2028 Assembly elections. The MLAs are advocating for opportunities to be extended to others as the current government’s three-year term nears its end.
The demand for cabinet posts by junior MLAs and MLCs is viewed as reasonable by Jayachandra, who highlighted that all legislators have an equal chance to become ministers. He noted that the final decision on cabinet expansion lies with the high command, considering factors such as caste equations and social justice. Jayachandra also mentioned that the Chief Minister is aware of the Delhi visit and has shown openness to the demand for a reshuffle.
Anticipating changes in the cabinet, Jayachandra expressed confidence in a reshuffle taking place following the Delhi meetings. He emphasized that while the exact outcomes are unpredictable, changes are expected. The leadership situation is being internally discussed and will be resolved, with Jayachandra and other MLAs heading to Delhi for further discussions.
