Rahul Gandhi pushes for young leaders; Congress may implement ‘Kerala model’ in Karnataka cabinet

BENGALURU: After dramatic political developments, D K Shivakumar is set to become the next Chief Minister of Karnataka. Shivakumar, who currently serves as Deputy Chief Minister, was chosen for the top post after Siddaramaiah stepped down following three years in office. Reports suggest that the new Chief Minister may introduce major changes to the cabinet after taking charge. Similar to the V D Satheesan government that recently assumed power in Kerala, the Congress leadership is reportedly planning to give more opportunities to young leaders and fresh faces.

According to a Times of India report quoting Congress sources, the cabinet reshuffle is expected to include a mix of experienced leaders and younger politicians. Several senior ministers from the current Karnataka Cabinet may not find a place in the new government. However, Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa, Energy Minister K J George and Home Minister G Parameshwara are likely to be retained.

Reports also say that leaders close to Siddaramaiah, including Byrathi Suresh, Santosh Lad, Dinesh Gundu Rao and B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan, are being considered for ministerial positions. The move to include more young leaders in the government is reportedly being pushed by Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. However, senior Congress leaders have said that no final decision has yet been taken on the new Karnataka cabinet. They also stressed that experience will remain an important factor in selecting ministers.

According to reports, the new cabinet is likely to maintain a balance between young and senior leaders. Around 15 ministers from the Siddaramaiah government and five young faces may be retained, while the remaining posts could go to newcomers chosen by the new Chief Minister. The Karnataka cabinet has a total strength of 34 members, including the Chief Minister. Congress sources also said Rahul Gandhi had earlier advised Siddaramaiah to include more MLAs below the age of 50 in the cabinet, and a similar approach may be followed this time as well.