Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar says High Command will decide cabinet expansion

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar told reporters that the decision on expanding Karnataka’s cabinet will be taken by the party’s high command. He said the party seniors will determine which ministers are appointed after the Congress won 136 seats in the recent state election.

Leaders of religious and community groups from 14 districts in North Karnataka met Shivakumar to press for the inclusion of MLA Salim Ahmed and other minority representatives in the ministry. The CM reiterated his commitment to balance all castes, religions and backward communities in the cabinet, citing examples such as Mansoor Ali Khan’s candidature for the Lok Sabha and the appointment of UT Khadar as speaker.

Shivakumar acknowledged internal pressures from various groups – Lingayat, Maratha, Christian, Muslim and Dalit factions – but emphasized that the final ministerial list will reflect the party’s constitutional principles and the need to empower under‑represented sections.