New Delhi/Bengaluru: The Congress high command is expected to take a final decision on the long-awaited expansion of the Karnataka cabinet on July 18, with around 10 legislators likely to be inducted into the ministry.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, KPCC president B.K. Hariprasad and other senior Congress leaders from Karnataka are expected to visit New Delhi to meet Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. The meeting is likely to focus on finalising the list of new ministers.
According to party sources, the high command is expected to give its final approval to the proposed list during the meeting. The swearing-in ceremony for the new ministers is likely to be held on July 21 or 22, with the date expected to be finalised after consultations.
Political activity has intensified at Karnataka Bhawan in New Delhi amid the delay in the cabinet expansion. Legislators aspiring for ministerial berths have stepped up lobbying efforts and are trying to secure meetings with senior AICC leaders. Deputy Chief Minister Dr G. Parameshwara is also expected to participate in the discussions.
Sources said around 10 new faces are likely to be inducted into the cabinet, while several incumbent ministers are expected to retain their positions.
The Congress leadership is also learnt to be considering greater representation for the Lingayat community as part of its political strategy ahead of the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections. The final list is expected to strike a balance between regional representation, caste equations and the interests of various factions within the party.
