Nineteen Congress MLAs took oath as ministers in the Karnataka government on Monday during a cabinet expansion held at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru. The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, who administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers.
The cabinet expansion is an important step for the Congress government as it strengthens the state administration by filling most of the available ministerial positions. The newly appointed ministers are expected to take charge of different departments and begin their responsibilities soon.
However, there was a last-minute change before the ceremony. Congress MLC Gayathri Shanthegowda, who was expected to become the only woman minister in the expanded cabinet, did not attend the swearing-in event. As a result, she was not sworn in as a minister.
Because of her absence, the Karnataka Council of Ministers remains one member short of its full approved strength of 34 members, including the Chief Minister. The government is expected to fill the remaining vacancy at a later stage.
The sudden change surprised many political leaders and party workers. It also led to discussions about why Gayathri Shanthegowda was not included in the final ceremony. However, no official reason has been announced regarding her absence.
The cabinet expansion comes at a time when the Congress government is working to strengthen its administration and improve governance in the state. The newly appointed ministers are expected to focus on implementing government schemes and addressing public issues across Karnataka.
Political observers believe the final vacant ministerial post could be filled in the coming days after further discussions within the Congress leadership. Until then, the Karnataka Cabinet will continue to function with one vacant position.