BELAGAVI: With reports of a possible cabinet reshuffle going viral after the bypolls held in three assembly segments of the state recently, several ministers continue to hint at it. However, the party high command and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remain non-committal on the issue.
According to sources, some of the underperforming ministers in the cabinet are expected to make way for new faces in the next few weeks. However, there is no clarity on this matter, as the government is unlikely to make any changes to its cabinet until the end of the winter session of the legislature, scheduled to be held from December 9 to 20 in Belagavi.
Commenting on the possible cabinet reshuffle, PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi said that discussions were ongoing (within the party) regarding the reshuffle and potential changes to the portfolios of some ministers. "I am not sure when the reshuffle or change of portfolios will take place," he added.
He further stated that it was the prerogative of the Congress high command to decide whether a cabinet reshuffle would take place. "Nobody has told me that some ministers in the cabinet will be replaced exactly after the completion of two years of the government's term. The party leaders in Delhi will make that decision," Jarkiholi said.
He mentioned, "Everything in the Congress party (Karnataka) will change once a list of ministers who will exit from the cabinet comes from New Delhi. All the listed ministers will have to vacate their houses and step down."
On the topic of whether the party would appoint a new KPCC Chief, he said he was not lobbying for the top party position. It was not easy to work as KPCC Chief, as it carried a huge responsibility. So far, no discussions had been held regarding the replacement of the KPCC Chief, he added.