Bengaluru, April 11 (NationPress) In light of ongoing discussions about a potential cabinet reshuffle, over 20 prominent MLAs from Karnataka's ruling Congress party are gearing up for a trip to Delhi to engage with the party's high command. This journey takes on added importance given the ongoing leadership conflict between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who also heads the State Congress.

The Congress administration has now reached the three-year mark of its term, and several veteran MLAs, having served three to five terms, are perceiving this as a prime opportunity. They aim to present their requests directly to AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge along with the national leadership.

Party insiders have indicated that the anticipated cabinet reshuffle might escalate the rivalry between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, as both leaders have seemingly compiled their own lists to favor their respective supporters. Additionally, sources within the party have mentioned that the high command has also drafted an independent list.

In response to these developments, seven-time MLA and the Special Representative of the Karnataka Government in Delhi, T.B. Jayachandra, remarked in Bengaluru on Saturday that the MLAs making the trip are seasoned lawmakers who have made significant contributions to the party.

"MLAs with three, four, and five terms have convened, reached a consensus, and decided to travel to Delhi. With three years completed in this cabinet, and two years remaining in the term, we are advocating for our candidacies. We are not reaching out to the high command via intermediaries," Jayachandra emphasized.

"Our intent is to meet our high command leader from Karnataka, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge," he continued.

He stated that any cabinet reshuffle ought to be based on political strategy and acknowledged the unpredictability of politics. "As we approach the elections in 2028, fulfilling the expectations of party workers becomes paramount," he asserted.

"We have formulated our strategy to present our case to the high command. The final resolution lies with them. There are no feelings of discontent or favoritism involved. With the termination of the three-year term, we are advocating for opportunities for others," he added.

According to him, the requests from junior MLAs and MLCs for cabinet roles are justified. "Every one of the 140 legislators and MLCs has the possibility of becoming ministers. Ultimately, the high command will determine who will join the cabinet and who will be excluded, taking into account caste considerations and other factors," he mentioned, noting that social equity will also be a consideration.

Jayachandra asserted that the authority for cabinet expansion rests with the Chief Minister and that he has been informed of these developments. "The Chief Minister is cognizant of the Delhi visit and has approached the demand with an open mindset," he stated.

"There is no uncertainty regarding leadership. The discussions are happening internally and will reach a resolution," he added. "I will be departing for Delhi tomorrow morning (Sunday), and many others will join me by evening. We plan to convene in Delhi on Monday morning (April 13). I am optimistic that a cabinet reshuffle will occur. While the exact outcomes are unpredictable, changes are certainly anticipated," Jayachandra concluded.