Karnataka Leadership Change: Drawing parallels with the Congress-led UDF experiment in Kerala, the Congress high command is reportedly considering a younger and fresher cabinet for Karnataka after the exit
of Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister.
According to Times of India report citing sources, the proposed cabinet reshuffle would be a mix of young and experienced leaders, a model implied in the VD Satheeshan-led Kerala cabinet.
Several senior ministers in the current Karnataka cabinet may not find a place in the new government probably succedeed by the Siddaramaiah’s deputy, DK Shivakumar. These reportedly include social welfare minister HC Mahadevappa, energy minister KJ George and home minister G Parameshwara, the report added.
Ministers considered close to Siddaramaiah, including Byrathi Suresh, Santosh Lad, Dinesh Gundu Rao and BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan, are also believed to be under scrutiny.
As per the report, citing party sources, he move aligns with Rahul Gandhi’s push for greater representation of younger leaders in Congress governments.
However, senior Congress leaders have said no final decision has been taken yet on the new Karnataka cabinet, adding that experience will remain an important factor in selecting ministers.
As per the report, the high command is likely to opt for a balanced mix of senior and younger leaders. Around 15 existing ministers and five younger faces from the current Siddaramaiah government may be retained, while the remaining posts could go to new entrants chosen by the new Chief Minister.
Karnataka has 34 cabinet posts, including the chief minister’s position, with three vacancies currently following the resignations of KN Rajanna and B Nagendra and the death of D Sudhakar.
Sources also said Rahul Gandhi had earlier advised Siddaramaiah to include more MLAs under the age of 50 in his cabinet, and a similar approach may be followed this time.
Former minister RV Deshpande, however, warned against removing experienced leaders completely. He said a government cannot function with only fresh faces and needs experienced ministers for stability and continuity.
Deshpande also said he is not seeking a cabinet position but would consider it if offered.
“We have not heard anything on the new cabinet so far, but if a govt must run there cannot be only fresh faces,” the 79-year-old Desphande told TOI, adding, “While fresh faces are welcome, there needs to be continuity and the govt needs experienced hands to function.”
The UDF cabinet introduced a cabinet comprising prominent Youth Congress leaders and seasoned politicians. Among the notable figures was P C Vishnunadh, representing Kundara, who has long been active in the Congress, serving in various roles including KPCC working president.
Roji M John, another fresh face from the UDF, held promise with his academic background and leadership experience. Incorporating diversity, the cabinet also included leaders like Bindu Krishna and K A Thulasi, who represent marginalized communities.
