Congress Leaders Emphasize Balance in Expanded Karnataka Cabinet

Bengaluru, August 4 – The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee’s president B.K. Hariprasad addressed the media on Tuesday, confirming that the recent enlargement of the state cabinet has not triggered any internal unrest. He stressed that the party has deliberately crafted a ministerial team that mirrors the state’s diverse communities while also bringing in fresh talent.

Hariprasad pointed out that a limited cabinet cannot accommodate every aspirant and urged party members to appreciate the constraints involved in expanding the executive. He reaffirmed that the Congress leadership is abundant and that each member, regardless of portfolio, contributes to the party’s vision.

He mentioned that senior leaders such as Krishna Ppa, Priya Krishna and Mankal Vaidhya have raised concerns, assuring that they will be invited for one‑on‑one talks. While Vaidhya’s name was part of an early draft of ministerial candidates, the final selection saw his omission, with senior stalwart S.S. Mallikarjun being added instead.

The party chief also criticised the outgoing BJP administration under Basavaraj Bommai for allegedly overlooking representation from thirteen districts. In contrast, Hariprasad highlighted Congress’s long‑standing commitment to empowering oppressed sections, noting that a minister in the new cabinet is the son of a civic worker.

He rejected rumors of any MLA resignations, stating that no resignation letters have been received and that any threat to quit will be withdrawn. On the issue of gender parity, Hariprasad admitted that women are missing from the current cabinet and pledged that the matter will be debated within the party ranks.

Overall, Hariprasad described the cabinet expansion as a successful effort to balance experience, regional equity, and the inclusion of new faces.