With former Minister and MLA M. Krishnappa and his son, MLA Priya Krishna, declaring that their claim to a ministerial berth was “non-negotiable”, and reports of women legislators being left out of the proposed Cabinet expansion drawing widespread criticism, the Congress leadership has intensified discussions on the final composition of the Karnataka Cabinet.
Multiple formulae are being explored to strike a balance between gender, regional, caste and community representation while accommodating competing political interests. The lack of consensus has delayed both the filling of a vacancy and the allocation of portfolios, as the party leadership is yet to take a final call on the MLA to be inducted and the Minister or Ministers who may have to make way, sources said.
With former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reportedly miffed over the decision not to induct Basavaraj N. Shivannavar (Bydagi MLA), the Congress leadership has been exploring multiple options to rebalance the Cabinet composition.
Balakrishna’s conciliatory note
Meanwhile, Minister H.C. Balakrishna (Magadi) struck a conciliatory note on Friday, saying he would abide by any decision taken by the party high command. Responding to speculation that he could be asked to resign to accommodate Vijayanagara MLA M. Krishnappa in the Cabinet, Mr. Balakrishna said the party’s decision would be paramount.
