Shivakumar Dismisses Cabinet Reshuffle Rumours in Karnataka as ‘Media Speculation’
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday downplayed ongoing speculation around a possible cabinet reshuffle, calling the talk “media rumours” without basis in official discussions.
Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar made it clear that neither he nor Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had spoken about any reshuffle, and emphasized that only the Congress high command holds the authority to make such decisions.
“There’s no cabinet (reshuffle), nothing. These are all rumours spread in the media by those listening to some individuals,” Shivakumar said.
“Some are in a hurry to become ministers and start lobbying when their names appear in the media. But everything will be decided by the high command.”
Background: November ‘Halfway Mark’
The Congress-led state government is nearing the midpoint of its five-year term this November, sparking what some within political circles are referring to as the “November revolution” — a possible power-sharing shift or cabinet reshuffle.
Party insiders suggest that CM Siddaramaiah’s camp is pushing for a reshuffle to reinforce his leadership for the remainder of the term. Such a move could send a strong signal that Siddaramaiah intends to remain at the helm, possibly dampening Shivakumar’s ambitions to stake his claim to the chief ministerial position.
There has been longstanding speculation about a power-sharing formula between the two leaders, with suggestions that Shivakumar might take over during the latter half of the term.
Pressure from Within
Alongside the leadership dynamics, ministerial aspirants within the Congress — particularly some MLAs have been pushing for cabinet inclusion. A few have even gone on record to express their desire for ministerial roles, adding fuel to the reshuffle speculation.
Karnataka’s cabinet allows for a maximum of 34 ministers, including the Chief Minister. Currently, two positions are vacant:
- Following B. Nagendra’s resignation due to alleged embezzlement at the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki ST Development Corporation.
- The recent sacking of K.N. Rajanna on the high command’s orders.
Final Say with High Command
Despite the chatter, Shivakumar made it clear that the final decision — whether on reshuffle or leadership transition rests entirely with the Congress high command, and not with local leadership or political factions.
