The Times of India
Elections 2026Karnataka / The Times of India
Karnataka's new Congress cabinet features a record seven Scheduled Caste ministers. This expansion reflects a balanced caste and regional representation for upcoming elections. The ministry also accommodates dominant communities and minority groups within its structure. Vokkaliga representation remains strong while ensuring inclusivity for other backward classes. This strategic cabinet aims to consolidate the Congress's electoral position for the future.
Karnataka's new cabinet has no Brahmin ministers, a first since the state's formation. This decision reflects the Congress party's strategy to consolidate its core AHINDA support base. Senior leaders like Dinesh Gundu Rao and RV Deshpande were reportedly overlooked for various political reasons. Coastal Karnataka also lacks representation in the 33-member cabinet after a last-minute change. The composition appears to prioritize the Congress's core vote bank for upcoming electoral considerations.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expanded his cabinet by inducting nineteen MLAs. This expansion brings the total cabinet strength to thirty-three ministers, leaving one vacancy. The new ministry includes seven SC ministers, a record, and no Brahmin representation for the first time. Several senior leaders were notably excluded from the ministerial positions. A last-minute change saw S S Mallikarjun replace Mankal Vaidya on the list.
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Deepak Kumar Shenvi/ TNN
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Two Congress MLAs resigned from the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on Monday. They were unhappy over their exclusion from the state cabinet expansion. Supporters of one MLA protested, alleging unfair treatment by the party. Twenty ministers are set to take their oath later today. These resignations intensify discontent within the ruling party.
The Congress high command approved twenty new leaders for the Karnataka Cabinet. This expansion reflects broad social and regional representation across the state. Seven Lingayat ministers were retained, and five Vokkaliga community members secured berths. The ministry includes significant representation from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and minority communities. Several senior leaders were not accommodated, sparking discussions on ministerial allocation.
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