Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is holding consultations with the Congress leadership in Delhi over portfolio allocation and possible changes to his recently expanded Cabinet.

The Congress leadership had cleared 20 names for the August 3 expansion, but only 19 ministers were sworn in. The induction of MLC Gayathri Shanthegowda was deferred, leaving the expanded ministry without a woman minister.

The development immediately drew criticism from the Opposition and women leaders. Shivakumar has acknowledged the issue and said women will receive representation, but no fresh appointment has been notified.

The Karnataka Chief Minister’s official portal has published his assurance that women would be accommodated.

Why Gayathri Shanthegowda Was Not Inducted

Gayathri Shanthegowda was reportedly among the 20 names cleared by the Congress leadership. However, her ministerial induction was deferred because procedural steps connected with her position in the Karnataka Legislative Council had not been completed.

Her name remains central to speculation over the vacant Cabinet position, but neither the Karnataka government nor the Congress has announced her appointment.

Shivakumar is expected to seek approval from the central leadership before making any further change.

Portfolios Still Awaited

The allocation of departments to the 19 newly inducted ministers is another major pending decision.

Reports indicate that Shivakumar must balance administrative experience with competing caste, community and regional demands. Some Congress MLAs and community organisations have publicly complained about inadequate representation.

Former chief minister Siddaramaiah’s supporters are also reportedly unhappy over the exclusion of some legislators considered close to him. Reports have specifically referred to discontent over Byadgi MLA Basavaraj N. Shivannavar being denied a Cabinet berth.

The inclusion of former minister B. Nagendra has separately attracted political attention because of allegations connected with the Valmiki Corporation case. Nagendra has denied wrongdoing.

No Final Changes Yet

The Chief Minister’s visit to Delhi indicates that the Cabinet formation process remains incomplete, but it should not be presented as a confirmed reshuffle.

As of publication:

• No new minister has been appointed.
• Portfolios for the 19 ministers have not been officially announced.
• Gayathri Shanthegowda has not taken the ministerial oath.
• No minister has been removed from the expanded Cabinet.

The Indian Express and Times of India have reported that the discussions cover portfolios, women’s representation and internal party dissatisfaction