Bengaluru, August 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The long-pending expansion of the Karnataka Cabinet is expected to take place on Monday, with the Congress high command likely to give its final approval to the list of ministers proposed by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar after a series of consultations with the party leadership.
According to party sources, the expansion process has entered its final phase, although formal clearance from the Congress high command is still awaited. Senior Congress leaders have reportedly discussed the proposed list with Rahul Gandhi, and one final round of deliberations is expected before the names are officially approved.
Sources said Chief Minister Shivakumar has prepared a tentative list of 20 legislators for induction into the ministry and submitted it to the party leadership for consideration.
Congress General Secretaries K.C. Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala are expected to arrive in Bengaluru on Monday with the approved list, following which the party is likely to announce the new ministers and the schedule for the swearing-in ceremony.
The oath-taking ceremony is expected to be held on Monday evening at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan. While the state government has not officially confirmed the programme, preparations are reportedly underway following directions from the Chief Minister.
The cabinet expansion comes two months after Shivakumar assumed office on June 3 with a 14-member Council of Ministers, leaving 20 ministerial berths vacant. The exercise had been delayed due to extensive consultations within the party and the need for approval from the Congress leadership.
Party sources indicated that 18 of the 20 vacant positions are likely to be filled, while two berths may be kept vacant for future political and organisational requirements.
The Congress leadership is understood to be focusing on maintaining caste and regional balance while accommodating the aspirations of party legislators. Districts currently without cabinet representation are also expected to receive consideration.
The expansion is likely to feature several new faces, although around six former ministers from the previous Siddaramaiah government are expected to return to the cabinet.
With several MLAs having lobbied for ministerial positions since the formation of the Shivakumar government, the expansion is being closely watched for its political significance within the ruling Congress. An official announcement is expected once the party leadership grants formal approval.
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