Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar Announces Cabinet Expansion and Seeks Tirupati Aarti Protocol

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar is preparing a major cabinet expansion slated for 20 July, adding up to 20 ministers to strengthen the Congress ahead of upcoming state elections. Sources say the CM will meet senior party leaders in Delhi to finalise the list, and senior Congress figures such as Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are expected to discuss the reshuffle before the legislative session begins in August.

In a separate initiative, Shivakumar has proposed a protocol allowing Karnataka ministers, MLAs, judges and senior officials to participate in the daily Nitya Harathi (first aarti) at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. While the state argues the privilege historically belongs to Karnataka, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams board and BJP leaders object, with board member Bhanu Prakash Reddy stating, “Nitya Harathi is a non‑transferable honour and cannot be extended on the recommendation of any state government.” The proposal is under review by the temple trust.