Bengaluru, Oct 13 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hosted a dinner gathering at his official residence, 'Cauvery', on Monday night for his cabinet members.

During the event, he subtly indicated the need for accountability regarding both party organization and a potential cabinet reshuffle.

Sources indicated that Siddaramaiah advised ministers to be prepared to relinquish their positions if necessary and to engage in organizational efforts. The ministers also debated the prohibition of RSS activities within the state, the upcoming cabinet reshuffle, civic elections in Bengaluru, the caste census, and the elections in Bihar.

The Chief Minister reassured them to concentrate on their responsibilities and not to be overly concerned about job security, highlighting that the high command is observant and tends to reward diligent and loyal leaders. Notably, he instructed ministers to be ready to travel to Bihar whenever summoned by the high command.

Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar was present but departed early. After his exit, Siddaramaiah engaged in informal discussions with the remaining ministers.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy commented, “We discussed the BBMP, Zilla Panchayat, and Taluk Panchayat elections. There was no conversation regarding a cabinet reshuffle. The dinner meeting primarily focused on elections.”

Labour Minister Santosh Lad added, “We enjoyed a wonderful dinner. It was a casual gathering where we caught up and exchanged greetings. While some ministers spoke privately with the CM, there were no significant discussions.”

In response to a question, he remarked, “In politics, minor incidents occur. A minister from the Taliban government held a press conference here, but our Prime Minister has yet to do so. The media should raise questions. It is disgraceful that, at the Taliban minister's request, female journalists were barred from attending the press conference. This reflects poorly on our nation.”

Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge opted not to comment.

This development, amid growing speculation about a possible leadership change and strong rumors of a cabinet reshuffle, is significant.

Congress party insiders revealed that Siddaramaiah had multiple objectives for hosting the dinner. Firstly, to assert his continued leadership of the state unit amidst claims from Shivakumar's camp regarding a potential leadership transition in November and talk of a “November Revolution” within the ruling party.

Secondly, to convey to cabinet ministers the necessity of sacrificing their positions for the party's benefit. Siddaramaiah faces the challenge of executing a reshuffle without breeding hostility, as his camp fears that those losing ministerial roles could defect to opposing factions.

Thirdly, he aimed to address concerns raised by the State Contractors’ Association in a letter directed to him. Sources indicated that the CM is treating this matter seriously, especially since the association has also forwarded the letter to the Congress high command. He is expected to instruct the concerned minister, who oversees seven to eight departments under scrutiny, to streamline processes and resolve the issues.