Lobbying for ministerial berths to regain momentum in Karnataka

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath to DK Shivakumar during the swearing-in ceremony of the new government in Bengaluru on 3 June 2026.

After the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council seats in Karnataka, lobbying for ministerial berths is expected to pick up next week.

While 13 ministers have been sworn in along with Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, another 20 beds need to be filled. Lobbying reached insane heights ahead of the swearing-in of literally every Congress legislator camping in Delhi.

Party sources said that with the Chief Minister expected to travel to Delhi to discuss the cabinet expansion after June 22, activity will pick up speed again. Sources said the expansion is expected to be completed by June 30 so that the new ministers can understand their portfolio before they face the legislature during the monsoon session expected in July.

Sources also said that about four beds out of 20 could be left vacant to accommodate more lawmakers later if dissident activity from those who missed out increases after the expansion. More than 50 legislators — both senior and junior — are vying for cabinet posts, sources said.

Published – 19 Jun 2026 21:33 IST