The Congress party came to power in Karnataka with strong support from women voters. Many women backed the party because of its election promises and welfare schemes. However, the newly expanded state cabinet has no woman minister, which has led to criticism and disappointment.
The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, recently expanded its Council of Ministers. Many expected Congress MLC Gayathri Shanthegowda to be included as the only woman minister in the cabinet.
However, in a last-minute change, Gayathri Shanthegowda’s name was removed from the final list, and she did not take oath as a minister. As a result, the cabinet currently has no woman minister, leaving one ministerial post vacant.
The decision has raised many questions within the Congress party and among the public. Several political leaders and observers have pointed out that women played an important role in helping the Congress win the Karnataka Assembly election. They believe women should also receive proper representation in the government.
Opposition parties have criticized the Congress government, saying its actions do not match its promises of supporting women’s participation in politics. They have questioned why no woman was included in the cabinet despite the party’s focus on women’s welfare during the election campaign.
Congress leaders have not yet given a detailed explanation for Gayathri Shanthegowda’s exclusion. However, party leaders have said the remaining vacant ministerial position may be filled in the future after further discussions.
The issue has started a wider debate about women’s representation in politics and the need to provide equal opportunities in leadership positions. Many people are now waiting to see whether the Congress government will appoint a woman minister in the next cabinet expansion.