Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar
As the Congress high command is expected to take a decision after next month’s State Budget session on a possible leadership change in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has supported the induction of new faces into the Cabinet. He said the party cannot rely on the old guard indefinitely and needs fresh thinking for its future.
Current composition
The government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah currently includes several senior Ministers such as H.C. Mahadevappa, G. Parameshwara, H.K. Patil, K.J. George, and Ramalinga Reddy, all of whom have held key portfolios in the past.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Shivakumar, who is also the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief, backed the demand of first-time MLAs seeking representation in the Cabinet. “The party needs new blood and new thinking. I support fresh blood,” he said, emphasising the need for a generational shift.
He was responding to questions about first-time MLAs writing to senior party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, seeking a place in the Cabinet during the proposed reshuffle.
Meanwhile, members of the Legislative Council (MLCs) have also demanded Cabinet berths, citing minimal representation.
In a joint representation addressed to the Congress high command and the State leadership, the legislators urged that at least five first-time MLAs be inducted as Ministers.
“As you are aware, the people of Karnataka have elected 38 members to the Legislative Assembly from the Indian National Congress for the first time, sending a clear message that they want to see new and young faces in the legislature,” the MLAs stated in their letter.
Amiable solution
With internal differences within the ruling Congress unlikely to subside soon, the party high command is expected to summon State leaders, including Mr. Siddaramaiah and Mr. Shivakumar, to work out an amicable solution on the leadership issue.
Published – February 25, 2026 06:37 pm IST
