D.K. Shivakumar.
| Photo Credit: File photo
With a large number of MLAs lobbying for ministerial berths, the expansion of Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s Cabinet has emerged as one of the most delicate political exercises for the ruling Congress, with the party leadership attempting to contain the expectations of a large number of aspirants.Sources said Mr. Shivakumar is expected to leave for New Delhi next week, along with KPCC president B.K. Hariprasad and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.The leaders are expected to discuss the Cabinet expansion with the Congress high command, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. Although the ministry currently has only 14 members against the constitutionally permitted strength of 34, the long-awaited expansion has been delayed by a few days due to Mr. Gandhi’s foreign tour. Mr. Gandhi is expected to be in Delhi after July 5, sources said.FrontrunnersThe Congress is expected to induct one or two representatives from the Muslim community, besides accommodating legislators who have not been made Ministers so far. Among the frontrunners from the minority community are Saleem Ahmed, MLC, and Rizwan Arshad, Shivajinagar MLA.
The leaders are expected to discuss the Cabinet expansion with the Congress high command, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge.
