Bengaluru: Public works minister Satish Jarkiholi confirmed Wednesday that chief minister Siddaramaiah is indeed contemplating a cabinet reshuffle following the Congress party's strong performance in the recent bypolls. The move is seen as an attempt to address his govt's sagging image, plagued by controversies linked to the Mysore Urban Development Authority, Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, excise bribery allegations, and the waqf land dispute.
Congress MLAs aspiring for ministerial posts have intensified pressure on state party brass, with some openly expressing their ambitions. Despite this, party sources suggest that a major overhaul is unlikely, given that the govt is only 18 months into its term.
Jarkiholi said discussions are ongoing, though the timing remains uncertain. "Some ministers might be replaced, and some portfolios could be changed," he said. "These discussions are underway. I have not asked for any changes myself. It is up to the high command to decide who will be given what position."
Asked if the reshuffle would be based on ministers' performance, Jarkiholi said, "It could be. The brass may not be satisfied with some, or they might choose to retain the current ministers without changes. It's hard to say. There are many seniors in our party." Asked if ministers would willingly step down, Jarkiholi said, "What the high command decides is final. They should step aside without question."
Siddaramaiah has made no bones of his intent to re-induct former minister B Nagendra into the cabinet, even though the four-time MLA from Ballari Rural remains under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate over alleged illegal fund transfers involving the ST development corporation. The ‘scam' had cost Nagendra his ministerial post.
Speculation is rife that Siddaramaiah is courting a prominent JD(S) MLA from Mysuru to join Congress and take up a ministerial position. This could involve dropping an existing minister from the same region to maintain regional balance. He is also reportedly considering divesting RB Timmapur of the excise portfolio, following serious corruption allegations by liquor merchants against the department. Siddaramaiah had reportedly assured the association that he would consider changing the minister.
Home minister G Parameshwara Wednesday reiterated that the decision ultimately rests with the CM. "Cabinet reshuffle is the chief minister's prerogative. He will consult the Pradesh Congress Committee President and the high command. I am not privy to their discussions," he said.
An aide of the CM said, "If executed, the reshuffle is expected to achieve dual aims: Reinvigorate the govt's image while addressing aspirations of legislators eager to join the cabinet."