DK Shivakumar Addresses Karnataka Cabinet Reshuffle Speculations: "What's Wrong With Having Aspirations?"

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar recently addressed questions about legislators expressing their ministerial aspirations amid cabinet reshuffle speculations.

When questioned about Congress legislators openly voicing their desire for cabinet positions, Shivakumar responded pointedly, "What is wrong with having aspirations?" He defended the ambitions of party members, noting that those who have worked diligently for the party naturally harbor such aspirations.

"Those who work hard for the party, make sacrifices, and struggle will have aspirations. The Chief Minister has the option of appointing MLAs and MLCs as ministers. We cannot say their ambitions are wrong," Shivakumar elaborated.

These statements come as speculation intensifies about potential cabinet changes in Karnataka's government. The rumors gained momentum after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Saturday, followed by a meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

When pressed about potential leadership changes, Shivakumar deflected with humor, suggesting reporters should "consult an astrologer to predict cabinet expansion or leadership change."

Political circles have been discussing a possible change in chief ministership when the Congress government reaches the halfway point of its five-year term in November. Some have termed this anticipated shift the "November revolution," referencing a purported power-sharing arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.

Siddaramaiah previously acknowledged that party leadership had requested him to undertake a cabinet reshuffle four to five months ago, but he preferred waiting until the government completed 2.5 years in office.

Addressing separate rumors, Shivakumar firmly denied reports about his resignation as the Congress Karnataka unit chief, describing himself as a "disciplined soldier" of the party.

He clarified that his recent Delhi visit was to invite Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge to attend the foundation-laying ceremony for 100 new Congress offices planned across Karnataka.