Bengaluru: With the formation of the new Karnataka government entering its final phase, intense discussions are underway within the Congress over the composition of the first cabinet under chief minister-designate D K Shivakumar.
Sources said around 10 to 12 ministers are likely to be sworn in alongside Shivakumar during the oath-taking ceremony scheduled for June 3. The proposed list is understood to have been prepared after consultations involving senior Congress leaders and has been forwarded to the party high command for approval.
According to party sources, the preliminary list has been discussed by senior leaders and is expected to be reviewed before being sent to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge for final clearance.
Several senior Congress leaders are said to be in contention for cabinet berths. Among the names being widely discussed are U. T. Khader, Satish Jarkiholi, G. Parameshwara, Priyank Kharge, Ramalinga Reddy, K. J. George and Krishna Byre Gowda.
Sources also indicated that either Yathindra Siddaramaiah or Byrathi Suresh could find a place in the ministry. Similarly, one among M. B. Patil and Eshwar Khandre is also believed to be under consideration.
While speculation over the cabinet composition continues, Congress leaders maintained that no final decision has been taken and that the list remains subject to approval by the party high command.
A clearer picture of the new ministry is expected to emerge once the Congress leadership formally announces the names ahead of the swearing-in ceremony.
