Around 30 Congress MLAs from Karnataka have gathered in New Delhi to increase pressure on the party leadership for a cabinet reshuffle and inclusion in the state ministry. The legislators have stationed themselves at Karnataka Bhavan, with more expected to arrive, bringing the group’s strength to nearly 30. They are set to have a breakfast meeting before meeting senior AICC leaders like KC Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala.
This move represents a coordinated effort by ministerial hopefuls, awaiting a meeting with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge upon his return to Delhi from Bengaluru. The MLAs also plan to request a meeting with Rahul Gandhi, depending on his availability.
The show of force follows a strategy session held in March, where the group decided to collectively push for a cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka. The demand has gained urgency as some leaders have held ministerial positions multiple times, limiting opportunities for others.
Congress MLA Belur Gopalakrishna stated that the delegation would emphasize prioritizing those who have not yet been accommodated, focusing solely on securing ministerial roles. Another MLA, Ashok Pattan, highlighted the need for equitable representation within the party, calling for a swift reshuffle to provide opportunities to senior members.
The MLAs are advocating for a significant cabinet restructuring, proposing opening up to 25 positions to accommodate senior leaders awaiting roles. They emphasize that their visit is solely centered on cabinet expansion, leaving the final decision to the party high command.
With a considerable group assembled in Delhi and requesting consecutive meetings with central leaders, the pressure on the Congress leadership to decide on a Karnataka Cabinet reshuffle has escalated.