Bengaluru, Oct 11 (NationPress) Refuting the claims made by Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar that the talk of Cabinet expansion is merely a rumour, senior Congress leader and MLC Saleem Ahmed stated on Saturday that the party is indeed considering a Cabinet reshuffle in Karnataka following the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.

While addressing journalists in Haveri, the Congress MLC remarked, "Some Ministers may be removed from their positions to strengthen the party's organisational structure, while new leaders within the party could be appointed as Ministers."

He further noted that both the Congress high command and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah have been discussing the potential reshuffle, although the ultimate decision will rest with the party's high command.

"When the Congress government was established in Karnataka in 2023, I was expected to be part of the Cabinet, but my name was excluded at the last minute. Having dedicated 43 years to the party's efforts in the state, I am optimistic about receiving an opportunity in the upcoming reshuffle," he added.

In response to Karnataka Food Minister K.H. Muniyappa's statement regarding stepping down if his daughter were to assume a Ministerial role, Muniyappa's daughter and MLA Roopakala M remarked, "I should earn a position based on my qualifications. I do not seek a role that is a result of my father's concession."

Speaking at Betamangala village in KGF, Kolar district, she continued, "If I am deemed suitable at the government level, I should be granted a Ministerial role. I do not wish to receive a position due to someone else's sacrifice."

Amidst the speculation regarding a Cabinet expansion, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar reiterated that the information about this development is unfounded.

He made his comments to the press on Saturday during the "Bengaluru Walk" programme at the Lalbagh Botanical Garden in Bengaluru.

When questioned about the status of Cabinet expansion in Karnataka, Shivakumar asserted, "There is no Cabinet expansion, and no authority has proposed one. Some media are spreading incorrect information. For any suggestion, either the Chief Minister or I must propose it; if neither has done so, then it is false news. People often speak prematurely to the media. Ultimately, the Congress High Command will decide."